Finding a therapist / counsellor who best meets your needs is fundamental in your journey to mental health wellness. These questions can help in your search.
Starting therapy is a big step in your journey toward mental wellness. Your therapist will play a key role in your healing process, and it’s important that you choose one who best matches your needs.
It is important to know that your therapist has experience regarding your specific condition before, you know and understand what type of therapy they use, and know if they take a directive or less directive approach. You may prefer one over the other.
A good first step is to consider what you are seeking therapy for. Is it for personal growth or to treat a specific condition? This consideration is a good place to begin to find a therapist with the appropriate background for your needs.
When choosing a therapist do not be reluctant to ask him or her some questions. Any bona fide therapist will welcome such questions. Therapy is a significant investment of your time and money. It is best if you can ensure your therapist is a good fit for you.
Here are six basic question you should ask when choosing a therapist.
Do you have experience treating my particular condition?
Not all therapists have experience treating every client presentation. Many specialize or focus on a few conditions.
If you need help healing from childhood abuse, then look for someone who specializes in trauma. If you and your partner are struggling with communication, then a family and relationship counselor might be the best choice.
What specific type of therapy do you recommend for my condition?
Ask your therapist how they plan to address your particular challenge. Some therapists stick with one type of intervention while others use a combination of approaches.
Below are some commonly used types of therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, your therapist will help you identify and change negative and distorted thinking patterns. Research shows that CBT is effective for many conditions, including depression, eating disorders, and addiction, and leads to significant improvement in functioning and well-being. This approach will often be considered directive and action orientated
- Person Centred Therapy, is considered non-directive therapy
How long will therapy last?
It’s important to get an idea of how long you’ll be in therapy. Does your therapist want to focus on the short term or the long term? Many therapists will contract with you on a rolling 6 week basis with a review at each 6 week point in time.
It is important that you and your therapist are clear on the goals of the process. This can often be established during the first consultation.
Will you take a directive or less directive role?
Some therapists take a leadership role: They might give you specific goals and homework to do, and perhaps guide you through a specific program (CBT, Solution Focused for example).
Others take a more passive role and put you in the driver’s seat: They allow you to guide conversation topics (person centered or non directive therapy)
Which do you prefer? Do you want your therapist to take charge and challenge you, or would you rather sit in the driver’s seat and bring them along for support be clear about this with your therapist from the outset.
Is therapy offered online? In-person?
The COVID-19 pandemic brought many changes to our world. And one of them is the normalization of online appointments. Today, many therapists offer live video consultations, and many even prefer this platform.
Which do you prefer? Would you rather see your therapist in-person, or skip the commute altogether and meet online?
How do you establish therapy goals?
When you begin therapy, you might feel like you’re simply going to “feel better.” But feeling better may require some specific strategies. Perhaps you want to build better coping skills, reduce negative self-talk, learn to set boundaries, or learn new communication strategies. Ensure you have an idea of where your therapy is heading.
Take some time to think about what kind of therapist best fits your needs. Do you prefer an older, more experienced therapist, or perhaps someone younger?
Do you want someone from your same cultural background or are you open to anyone? Is it important that the office is close by or are you willing to commute a bit to get there?
Your therapist will play a important role in your life. You’ll likely see them weekly for at least several months. You may see your therapist even more than some family members — and you’ll likely be sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings.
Just as you’d choose a new friend or partner carefully, it’s important that you feel safe to develop a trusting relationship with your new therapist.
If you find you’ve made the wrong choice after a few appointments, first bring it up with your therapist to see if there is an issue or roadblock that could be resolved together. If it can’t be resolved, you might benefit from working with another therapist. Ultimately, you’re the one in charge. Therapists will not be offended. It is important that you find some one you can work with to receive the resources and support you need.