Ok, so you’ve finally made the decision to start counseling! You’re ready to make that change and find a good therapist! This is the year that you’re going to get the help you need to let go of all the things that are holding you back and move forward.

CONGRATULATIONS! Making that decision is often the hardest part.

Now, how do you find a good therapist? You want someone qualified that gets you and also someone who will challenge you to grow.

Finding the right therapist is important. Depending on your situation, time and money, you may only have one shot at this….

SO LET’S DO IT RIGHT!

STEP 1 TO FINDING A GOOD THERAPIST

Are you wanting to use your health insurance or are you wanting to pay for therapy out-of-pocket? If you’re wanting to use your insurance, the best first step is to connect with your insurance company and get a list of providers in the area that take your insurance. I, personally, do not take insurance which protects my client’s confidentiality.

If you’re opting for a therapist that doesn’t take insurance (you may still be able to use flex spending or out-of-network benefits), start by asking around for recommendations or searching “therapist near me” in your google search. Spend a few minutes looking through therapist websites for an energy that speaks to you. Try to narrow your choices down to 3.

STEP 2 TO FINDING A GOOD THERAPIST

The next thing you want to do take advantage of a therapist’s free consultation call.

DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP!

Most therapists offer a 15-minute FREE consultation call so you can get to know each other and make sure you’re a good fit. The impact of therapy SKYROCKETS when you have a good rapport and are aligned with your therapist. That doesn’t mean you need to be best friends (you shouldn’t be) and it doesn’t mean you have to have a lot in common (that’s not necessary). But, you do need to appreciate their style and their energy.

Ask yourself, “Does this person speak to me?”

NOW, you’ve got your new potential therapist on the phone. What now? 

STEP 3 TO FINDING A GOOD THERAPIST

Give him/her a brief summary of what you’re struggling with and why you’re reaching out for help. This can bring up some vulnerability so just know, you’re in a SAFE PLACE. Move at a pace you’re comfortable with and disclose information only if it feels okay for you.

While you’re explaining you situation, notice any comments your potential therapist is saying.

• Do you feel listened to?
• Does this therapist seem to be on the same page as you?
• Do they seem to understand the essence of your struggle?

STEP 4 TO FINDING A GOOD THERAPIST

Once you’ve warmed up and explained your situation, here are some questions you can and should ask.

1. Does my struggle/situation seem like something you’d be comfortable working with?
2. Given what I said, do you think therapy is something that can help me? Or, would you recommend something else?
3. What kind of approach would you take?
4. Can you tell me what’s it’s like to work with you?
5. How long do expect me to be in therapy? (Even though this question is impossible to answer, feel free to hear what they have to say about it.)
6. How much do you charge?
7. How long are your sessions?

STEP 5 TO FINDING A GOOD THERAPIST

Here’s the thing…while the answers to these questions are important, the REAL purpose of these questions is to strike a free-flowing dialogue with your potential therapist so can get a feel for their “flavor”.

Starting therapy or marriage counseling may seem overwhelming, but using this format will help you find a therapist who’s a great fit for you!

WE HAVE GOOD THERAPISTS

We are honored to be part of your life’s journey.

Knot Counseling believes it’s our job as counselors to meet you with respect, compassion, and empathy. We look forward to hearing your story and partnering with you in this process of healing and growth.

We strive to make counseling a healing experience by using techniques that address trauma from many different angles including EMDR therapy, Brainspotting, mindfulness meditation techniques, relationship counseling, visualizations, somatic experiencing, CBT and more.

Find out if Knot Counseling is a good fit for you!