THERAPIST SHOPPING

THERAPIST SHOPPING

“Therapist Shopping” and why you will need to do it.

Therapist shopping is the process of searching for and selecting the right therapist for you. It is a crucial step that is often not talked about in general discussions on mental health and therapy. Just as each individual is unique, so too are therapists and their approaches to therapy and since therapy is a very subjective and curated for each different individual, you may not find a “one size fits all” principle work here.

This is where the “shopping” comes. Finding the right kind of therapist, whose style, space, goals, approach you seem most comfortable with of your expectations, can make all the difference in your therapeutic journey.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of looking for a right therapist for you:

  1. Try to ascertain Your Needs and Goals

    Before diving into your search for a therapist, take some time to clarify your needs and goals for therapy. It is not essential that you create a list or have them jotted down somewhere (though feel free to do that if that works for you) for the same, simply having a broad idea or theme that you want to discuss will suffice.

    For some of you who may have done a little reading up in the realm of therapy and psychology, you can also consider what type of therapy meets your needs the best (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy), and what qualities in a therapist would make you comfortable in the engagement with the therapist e.g., empathy, expertise, cultural competence. Notice how you feel during the consultation—do you feel heard, understood, and respected? Do you feel comfortable opening up to the therapist? If something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to explore other options. If the latter gets difficult, imagine what qualities would you expect someone to have who can best hold the space that you are looking for.

  2. Research Potential Therapists

    Once you are clear with the above, it’s time to start researching potential therapists. One way that has high probability to yield promising results is asking for recommendations from friends, teachers, or trusted healthcare professionals. If someone is offering a recommendation it is likely that they have tried the therapist and they are good or have heard positive reviews about them from other sources. These days there are many portals that host therapists on their platform. Checking out these websites and portals is also a good start. They often have reviews, qualifications and specialities for the therapist that they have listed which might make it easier for someone who entering this arena for the first time.

  3. Be Open to Trying Different Therapists

    Finding the right therapist is often a process of trial and error. If you don’t feel a strong connection with the first therapist you try again, don’t be discouraged. It’s okay to explore other options until you find someone who feels like the right fit for you. Keep in mind that finding the right therapist is about finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and supported, so be patient and persistent in your search, it will be worth it.

  4. Consider Logistics and Practicalities

    As you narrow down your list of potential therapists, consider practical factors such as location, availability, and affordability. Think about whether you prefer in-person sessions or are open to teletherapy (online therapy) options. Know, this is an investment worth making.

  5. Schedule Initial Consultations

    Some therapists offer initial consultations or phone calls to give you an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and get a sense of whether they’re the right fit for you. Take advantage of these consultations to assess the therapist’s communication style, personality, and approach to therapy. Be prepared to ask questions about their experience, qualifications, treatment approach, and how they typically work with clients who have similar issues to yours.

    Entering therapy can feel like embarking on a journey into the unknown. Whether you’re seeking therapy for the first time or beginning a new therapeutic relationship, it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation, uncertainty, and hope. Understanding what to expect can ease some of the apprehension and help you make the most of your therapeutic experience.