How to choose a therapist

I often get asked by people who know me personally how they can find the best therapist for them. The strength of the therapeutic relationship will have a major impact on the success of your therapy. If you and the therapist don't have very good rapport, it can feel kind of like going on a bad date. It just won't click. But that does not mean you give up on therapy, or dating for that matter, it probably just means they were not the right person for you. So, how can you choose the right therapist?

Psychology Today has a helpful article that will give you some tips. I would recommend that you do some research before scheduling an appointment with someone. Ask for referrals. Check the therapist's website. And I would also recommend that you call the therapist and ask some basic question including:

How many years have you been practicing?

What kind of experience do you have working with (whatever problem you are experiencing)?

What are your areas of expertise?

What kind of treatments/techniques do you use and have they been proven effective for people with my kind of problem?

What are your fees?

If you feel comfortable with what you hear, schedule an appointment. It can be hard to tell if a therapist is a good fit until you meet them. If after several sessions you still don't feel comfortable, it may be time to find another therapist. A therapist can connect you with powerful resources to help you learn to live the life you want to live. It is worth some leg work up front to find the right person.

If you are struggling and would like help, we have Houston, Texas Counselors who can meet with you. You can contact us 713 -591- 3612 or by email at Nancy @ wilsoncounseling. org. This blog is not intended to substitute for professional counseling.

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