Finding the right psychotherapist can be a daunting process. You want to find someone who can understand your mental health needs while also being conveniently located near you. And with so many different mental health professionals and specialties to choose from, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to begin.
If you’re asking yourself, ‘How can I find a psychotherapist near me?” you have come to the right place. This article discusses the steps to take when searching for the right psychotherapist in your area who can help address your mental health concerns.
Firstly, What Is a Psychotherapist?
A psychotherapist is a trained professional who provides talk therapy to individuals, couples, and groups. They use various techniques and strategies to help clients identify and resolve emotional and behavioral issues, overcome difficulties, and achieve personal growth.
Psychotherapists provide psychotherapy or mental health counseling to individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client, where both parties work together to identify and achieve the client’s goals. You can choose to meet a therapist in person or online.
A psychotherapist can specialize in one or several therapy modalities or techniques. While each technique has its unique approach, all psychotherapists have a common goal of helping clients to manage their mental health concerns and improve the quality of their life.
According to Kristina Anzell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Grow Therapy, “Psychotherapists provide therapist services to help improve daily functioning. Therapists can conduct an assessment, provide a diagnosis, create a treatment plan, provide treatment, and coordinate with other providers if needed to help decrease symptoms and increase functioning.”
Who Goes to a Psychotherapist?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, 50% of people with mental health problems avoid seeking professional help due to the associated stigma. Seeking a psychotherapist‘s help doesn’t mean you are “crazy” or “weak.” On the contrary, it demonstrates great strength and self-consciousness when you recognize and admit that you need help and take steps to address your concerns.
Therefore, if you feel that you have one or more of the following concerns, it may be time you considered mental health treatment from a psychotherapist:
Feeling Overwhelmed or Stuck
From relational concerns and our own emotions to external stressors we lack control over, feeling overwhelmed can occur unexpectedly at any stage of life. If you feel like your problems are too big to handle, or you’re not making progress independently, a psychotherapist can help.
Experiencing a Major Life Change
Whether it’s a divorce, a job loss, or the death of a loved one, major life changes or transitions are often too difficult to navigate alone. A psychotherapist can provide support and guidance as you adjust to new circumstances.
Struggling with a Mental Health Issue
If you have emotional challenges or are struggling with a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety, a psychotherapist can assist you in managing your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Having Relationship Problems
Fear of confrontation, attachment issues, or being overly assertive are some reasons you may be having difficulties managing your relationships.
Whether it’s with a romantic partner, family member, or friend, relationship problems can be incredibly challenging. A psychotherapist can help you work through communication issues, build stronger relationships, and make difficult decisions.
Facing Addiction or Substance Abuse
While turning to substance use or drugs may help alleviate anxiety and negative thoughts, the reprieve is short-lived. You may potentially eventually become addicted or dependent, where you can no longer live a life free from substances or drugs.
If you are struggling with drugs and substance addiction, consult a psychotherapist. Through therapy, you will learn new and healthy coping skills to deal with anxiety and intrusive thoughts that led to your substance use.
What to Expect in a Psychotherapy Session
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between you and your therapist. It’s not a one-way street where the therapist tells you what to do. Instead, it’s a safe space to share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment. Your therapist will listen actively and provide support and necessary interventions based on their professional expertise.
During the initial session, your psychotherapist will begin to build a therapeutic bond and will likely ask open-ended questions to help you explore your thoughts and emotions. They may also ask you to describe specific situations that have caused you distress, and together you’ll work on understanding how these experiences have affected your mental and emotional well-being.
Your therapist will listen actively and provide support and necessary interventions based on their professional expertise.
Psychotherapy sessions usually last around 50 minutes, although this can vary depending on your therapist’s practice. If you opt for in-person therapy, you’ll typically sit face-to-face with your therapist in a comfortable and confidential setting.
If you prefer telehealth, you will have an online or virtual session from the comfort of your home or any other agreed-upon setting.
How to Find a Psychotherapist
If you have decided to seek therapy, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here are some steps to take to find a psychotherapist that is the right fit for you:
Look Online
Platforms like Grow Therapy are helpful when it comes to connecting you with the right therapist. Through Grow Therapy’s marketplace, you can find a licensed counselor experienced in your area of need who accepts your insurance. You can schedule an appointment immediately and meet your therapist within two days, online or in person.
Contact Professional Organizations
Professional organizations, such as the American Psychological Association (APA), the National Association of Social Workers, and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, can refer you to licensed therapists.
Check Your Insurance
If you have health insurance, check if it caters to mental health services. Your health insurance provider may have provider directories that can help you find a therapist.
Ask for Referrals
Friends and family members can also be a valuable resource in your search for a therapist. Reach out to friends or family members who have been in therapy and ask for recommendations. You might also contact your primary care physician or other healthcare professionals you trust.
Narrow Down Your Search
Once you have a list of potential therapists, narrow it down by reading their bios, checking their websites, and looking for reviews from other patients. Pick at least three professionals who you think are right for you.
Finally, schedule an appointment. Some therapist offer free 15-minute consultation calls. Others like to conduct their consultation during the first full-length appointment. It’s OK if you don’t find the right fit on your first try. Be sure to ask the provider questions to determine whether you feel they’re suitable for your needs.
Questions to Ask During an Initial Consultation
Asking focused questions during an initial consultation can help you make an informed decision. Here are some important questions to ask:
Experience and Background
Therapists are not trained to treat all kinds of mental illnesses. It’s important to ask your therapist whether they have the necessary education and experience to treat you.
For instance, if you have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you want a therapist who is trained in the field and has dealt with patients struggling with this condition.
You must also ensure that your therapist is duly licensed by their respective governing board to provide services in your state. It’s important to note that this is usually already in place when therapists sign up to provide services through the Grow Therapy platform, so you can be certain all providers you consider through Grow Therapy have the necessary licensing to work as a mental health provider.
Therapy Specializations
It’s important to ask your therapist about the types of therapy they offer and how their techniques may suit your condition.
Approaches to therapy also differ from one professional to another. Therefore, finding one who aligns with your values and goals is advantageous. Making your expectations clear with a therapist helps them develop a holistic treatment plan that suits your needs.
Availability and Scheduling Process
Ask about your therapist’s availability. The question will help you ensure their availability matches your schedule. You should also find out how appointments can be scheduled and canceled.
Find a Psychotherapist Near You Today
Finding the right psychotherapist is essential to mental wellness and personal growth. Therefore, it’s crucial to find a therapist who meets your needs and aligns with your personality and values.
If you are considering therapy, try Grow Therapy’s search tool. It allows you to locate a therapist who’s in your area, specializes in your area of need, and accepts your insurance type — making it simple to find the right therapist for you.
