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If you're considering therapy, finding a good therapist will be the first hurdle to overcome. You might not know where to start, there might not be enough options in your area, or you might not be connecting with the therapist you come across.

A good therapist can help you develop the skills necessary for dealing with your mental health concerns and exploring joy for the rest of your life, so the time to find the perfect one for you is worth the effort. You must research properly, ask the necessary questions, and explore all options. Here are four steps to finding the perfect therapist for yourself.


    ⦁   Checking With Insurance

The cost of therapy varies from option to option. In-person treatment tends to cost more, whereas online therapy options are cheaper. Before settling on a therapist, you must figure out your budget to help you prioritize therapy options that work best for you in the long term. If you have decided to pay for therapy through your insurance plan, checking your plan's network should be your first step, as it could be cheaper. However, check with your insurance plan if they limit the number of sessions you can take per year to decide if using a therapist outside your insurance network might suit you better.


    ⦁   Referrals From People You Trust

Referrals from people you know and trust, like a family member, friend, or colleague, can also be a good way of finding a therapist that is a good fit for you. They can give you better insights about a therapist than searching them online. However, it's important to note that while a referral can be an excellent place to start, your needs and goals differ from the person giving you the recommendation, so a good match for them might not be perfect for you.

You can also ask a medical doctor for a referral, as they can help you connect with a therapist that addresses your specific needs and concerns. They can also help you find a therapist that accepts your insurance plan if you have one. If you already go to a therapist but are looking for one that's a better fit for you, your therapist can point you to a suitable one through sites like Consultist, where practitioners refer therapy clients to each other.


    ⦁   Online Databases

Many recognized mental health organizations maintain updated searchable databases of therapists. Examples include the American Psychological Association, the Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists, and the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. You can look for a suitable therapist for yourself through these reliable databases. Simply type in your area’s code to generate a list of licensed counselors in your area. You will also be able to search for specialists, for example, therapists focusing on alcohol and drug use or marriage and family counselors.


    ⦁   Specialization and Credentials

While assessing potential therapists, ensure they have the required credentials and are qualified. They should have a license for practicing in the state/area they are in and certificates for the specific type of therapy they specialize in.

It's also essential that they are socially accepting. Even though all therapists are trained to be compassionate, empathetic, and understanding, working with one who is either a part of your community or has experience working with people you resonate with can make a significant difference. Many people, especially those from oppressed or marginalized groups, find it easier to open up to therapists who get their experiences. For example, you might find opening up to an LGBTQIA+ therapist easier if you're part of the community.


Endnote

Finding a good therapist can equip you with the skills to deal with your mental health concerns for the rest of your life. Ensure they have the necessary credentials and that they are qualified. Finding a culturally competent therapist belonging to the community you come from can also help. You can also look through the databases of well-known organizations; they are reliable and show you all available options in your area. You can also get referrals from a medical doctor, your current therapist, or trusted loved ones.