A 10 steps guide, on how to find a therapist .

A key element of therapy is finding the right match between the patient and the therapist. Keeping in mind that therapy is work, sometimes painful, can be helpful after you find someone. The benefits of therapy can also be life-changing and rewarding. Choosing a therapist is a complex process. What are the steps?

1. Make an appointment with your general practitioner to rule out any possible medical causes for your symptoms. Psychological symptoms can often be confused with physical ones.
2. If you are not in a country that provides free mental health care, such as the UK does, and you have not been able to access other charitable or support groups, find out what mental health coverage is available in other ways, for example, privately. You may need to consult your medical insurance if you hold it.
3. Get two or three referrals before making an appointment. Specify age, sex, race, or religious background if those characteristics are important to you.
4. Call to find out about appointment availability, location, and fees. Find out if they take your insurance or if they charge by income.
5. Make sure the therapist has experience helping people whose problems are similar to yours. Don’t be afraid to ask about experience and qualifications.
6. If you are satisfied with the answers, make an appointment.
7. During your first visit, describe those feelings and problems that led you to seek help. Find out how the therapist reacts and what options you are given for treatment. Do you feel comfortable with your choices? Are you able to express freely? Do you feel safe?(I can’t remember how many times a client said that they had chosen me and my clinic because during and after us chatting,they felt safe-but it’s a lot) so ensure you feel comfortable to be yourself and speak openly. These feelings may evolve as you chat and even change afterwards, so time your time to evaluate properly.
8. Be sure the psychotherapist does not take a “cookie cutter”or ‘’one size fits all’’ approach to your treatment -different psychotherapies and medications are tailored to meet specific needs. You are an individual and your therapist must show that perspective.
9. After your initial visit, take some time to explore how you felt about the therapist. Is there a connection? Do you still feel comfortable or has anything changed?
10. If everything meets your approval, schedule your next appointment. If not, go back to the list you gathered in Step 3 and start over again. Iwish you much love and light, I believe you will find your happiness.