Finding a Therapist: Best Ways to Find Professional Help

Finding a therapist may be a stressful or daunting task for some. With a wide range of options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Do you want fully online therapy or something in-person? Do you need someone who takes health insurance or are you paying out of pocket? These are just some of the practical questions you may ask yourself. You also will want to do research to find someone with the experience and credentials that are right for you. 

Types of Therapies

As mentioned above, it’s important to find the therapist and therapy style that’s right for you. However, how do you know what kind of therapy is best for you? Here are just a few of the many approaches to therapy that you can look into before making a decision about your therapist:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Humanistic/experiential Therapy

Here are some ways that can help you find your therapist:

1.) Ask for a Referral

Whether this referral is from a trusted friend/family member or your family doctor, this may be your first route to go. This may be a therapist who specializes in what you need or just someone who has good reviews from their clients. 

2.) Use Online Directories 

Using online directories is a great place to start your search for a therapist. Online directories will allow you to apply filters such as areas of practice, certain keywords, and the state/city that you reside in. Some examples of online directories are Psychology Today, TherapyDen, and GoodTherapy.

3.) Check with Your Insurance Company

Log into your insurer’s online portal or call the number on the back of your health insurance card to find out what therapists your insurance cover. In addition, your insurance portal should have a directory of in-network therapists, including both online and in-person.

4.) Contact a Mental Health Organization

Lastly, you can consider contacting a mental health organization such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI offers educational programs, advocates for individuals and families affected by mental illness, and operates a toll-free helpline.

*If you are in need of immediate intervention, please call the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988.