Therapy has helped millions of people cope with a wide range of emotional and mental problems, including anxiety, stress, grief, and depression. This form of treatment can be incredibly effective, as long as you are working with the right therapist for you and your needs. Finding a good therapist may not happen right away, and that’s OK. It is important that you take your time and make sure you are working with someone you trust and who makes you feel cared for and understood. You may want to look for someone who specializes in the type of emotional problem you are experiencing, or perhaps take a recommendation from a doctor or other person in your life who knows what you have been going through. A good therapist will work closely with you, helping you address your problems and become a stronger, healthier, more self-aware individual.
That being said, it is important to note that a therapist cannot ‘fix’ you or do everything for you. You must be willing to work on your concerns and approach each session with an open and honest attitude. One of the first steps to getting better and gaining more control over your emotions and your life is admitting that you need help. Once you are able to do that, you will have already taken the first step to feeling better about yourself and your life. As soon as you’ve made the decision to reach out and find a therapist, you may be wondering how to find someone who will be a good fit for you. You want to find someone you can entrust with your innermost thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and that isn’t always easy.
Here are a few tips for picking the right therapist for you:
- Do your research – The most important thing to keep in mind when looking for a therapist is that you need to do your research. Start by researching the types of therapies available and then dig a little deeper and research local therapist and their practices.
- Check out their experience – A therapist with experience in the particular area or issue you are seeking help for is a must. Most therapists specialize in a variety of issues, so look online or give them a call to make sure they have experience in your area.
- Consider a consultation – Establishing a relationship with your therapist early on is one of the keys to success. Many therapists offer consultations, allowing you to ask questions and see if you and the therapist are a good match. You may want to ask questions about his or her treatment philosophy, how they approach new patients, and how they think they may be able to help you. If you leave their office with a good feeling, chances are you’ve found your therapist.
- Look into their licensing – Not all therapists are licensed, but that shouldn’t raise any red flags. If you are considering going with one who is licensed, check their license through the state’s licensing board to see if they are in good standing. You will also be able to see if they have any complaints or anything negative on their record.
- Don’t settle – The biggest thing to keep in mind is that you should NEVER settle on a therapist. You may have to meet with 5 or 10 before you find the right fit, and that’s OK. If you don’t trust your therapist, you aren’t going to make any progress.
The Lifeworks team is in the business of life change, meaning we want to help you change disruptive patterns and your perspective of self and everything around you. If you are looking for a therapist, we could be the right fit for you. Please do not hesitate to contact our Dallas therapy center today to learn more about how we may be able to help you.
