How Do You Choose A Therapist Who Is Right For You?

When you recognize that you have a problem or issues in your life that are bigger than you and you decide to seek out professional help you have taken an important first step. You have begun a significant journey in your life that takes courage, strength of spirit and dedication. You should be proud that you are acknowledging that you need help and are reaching out to get it.

A therapist can help you to get your life back on track. Whether you need individual therapy, couples or family therapy, addiction therapy, children or adolescent therapy or some other form of therapy, there is a licensed professional counselor that can help you to work through your problems and to feel better.

The search for a therapist is not an easy thing for anyone to do. It can be uncomfortable to do and it can be somewhat frightening. For most people this is unfamiliar territory that they have never ventured onto before.

Where then do you start to look for a professional counselor to help you on your road to recovery? You could flip through the yellow pages of your telephone book or go online and see what you can find. It would also be beneficial to put a more personal slant on things by getting some feedback and suggestions from other people who might have names that they can recommend to you. Ask your family doctor or a lawyer you deal with for some names. If you know of a family member or friend who has been in therapy then ask him or her whom they are seeing (if you feel comfortable asking that is).

Speak with religious leaders such as a pastor in your community for suggestions. Another method of locating the names of qualified and well-respected therapists is to inquire through national associations or local support groups. It is the names that seem to come up over and over again that you should pay the most attention to.

There are different types of therapists. Some specialize in one area of therapy while others work with patients who have different areas of concern. You need to find one who is well acquainted with the problems that you are experiencing in your own life.

When you consult with a counselor make sure to ask the right questions that will help you to pinpoint whether this is the right professional for you or not. Find out about his educational background, his training in the field he works in and how much experience he has in treating patients with similar difficulties in their lives. Find out what his approach to therapy is as well as what his fees are and how many sessions he believes you may need to attend. You also need to find out what his areas of specialization are.

As you talk does the therapist seem attentive to what you are saying? Does he respond to your questions in a down to earth and straightforward fashion? Do you feel comfortable in his presence? You want to find an individual who makes you feel at ease and confidant. If you are squirming in your seat because of his intense stare and periods of silence then this is probably not the right professional for you.