“I’m ready for therapy, but how do I find the right therapist?”
Lets talk about something that can be instrumental in managing our mental health- finding the right therapist. While there are multiple factors that can influence who we choose to work with, we believe these ten considerations are essential for anyone who wants to get the best possible outcome from therapy.
Specializations - When looking for a therapist, it’s crucial to consider their areas of focus. Some therapists specialize in working with specific populations, such as children or members of a specific community. Others may have experience working with specific mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression or trauma.
Qualifications - A therapist’s qualifications matter- look into whether they have completed a degree program in psychology, counselling or social work. They should also be licensed to practice in your province. Some types of therapy require specific certification, it’s important to ask up front if you’re looking for something specific like EMDR (offered at Mental Wealth Counselling)
Personality - The relationship between a therapist and a client is an essential part of the therapeutic experience. See if their personality and style align with what you are looking for. If you want a therapist who’s empathetic and warm, for example, make sure to choose someone who has these qualities.
Approach - There are several therapeutic approaches available, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy. It’s essential to know which approach is right for your needs and choose a therapist who provides that type of treatment.
Fees - Therapy can be expensive, and the fees can vary significantly. Make sure to consider your budget and check to see if your extended health benefits cover therapy from either a Social Worker or Psychotherapist.
Location - You’re more likely to continue therapy if it’s convenient to attend sessions. Think about the location of the therapist’s office and how easily accessible it is. There has been exponential growth in virtual providers. The team at Mental Wealth Counselling work virtually - clients share that this has been a benefit to them for things such as time, childcare, transportation, and feeling of safety/comfort in their homes (when applicable).
Availability - Some therapists may not be available for appointments outside of business hours. If you need a flexible schedule, it’s essential to choose a therapist who can accommodate your needs. This is a great topic to bring up in your initial consultation!
Communication - Communication is vital between a therapist and a client. Make sure to discuss how you communicate (if necessary) between sessions. For example, our electronic medical record system (Jane) allows you to reschedule sessions on your own, but if there is no time that suits you, you are free to email or text your therapist for scheduling matters. Discuss this with your provider, as each therapist operates differently.
Tools - Look for a therapist who offers innovative and necessary tools for mental health, such as relaxation techniques, or psychoeducational exercises to help bolster your progress outside of sessions.
Referrals - Having a client refer someone they know to us is the best compliment we can receive. Although many people aren’t open about their therapy journey - some offer insight to who they think someone may be a good fit for, or something they really like about the work they are doing with their therapist. This can offer some insight when you’re considering therapy, maybe it’s the humour used in session, or the way their therapist makes them feel. Having a referral for who to call can be a big factor in reaching out.
Finding a therapist who meets your needs and requirements is crucial to get the most out of therapy. It’s important to consider these ten factors when choosing a therapist. Ultimately, the right therapist should provide a comfortable space and create a collaborative, supportive experience for you to work through the challenges you’re having together.
