With the number of therapists available to treat depression, finding the right one can seem a bit overwhelming. The following steps can help you narrow the field and find the expert who can best guide you in your recovery.
Decide on a Type of Therapist
The first step is to research what type of therapist you need. You might want to start by asking your primary care physician, who can direct you to the type of care you need based on your symptoms. Different types of therapists include psychologists, psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors.
Learn more about mental health professionals who treat depression.
Review Your Benefits
If you have health insurance, ask for a list of providers who are covered under your plan. Your policy may be limited to specific therapists or types of therapists. Contact your insurance company, Medicare, or Medicaid to find out what your payment plan is (co-pay, deductible, etc.) and to learn what’s covered. If you have insurance through your employer, the company’s human resources department will also know details about your plan.
Ask for Recommendations
Although your doctor might be your starting point for referrals, you can also ask others in your support network for recommendations. Friends, family, or clergy members might be able to direct you to therapists in your area. You can also check with local or national mental health organizations, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness or the American Psychological Association. Keep in mind, however, that you are the ultimate judge of who is a good fit as your therapist. Even if you get a glowing recommendation from a close friend, that therapist might not be right for you. Keep an open mind.
Consider Your Preferences
Before you meet with a therapist, be honest with yourself about your preferences. Will you be more comfortable speaking to a female instead of a male? Do you prefer someone older than you or the same age? Make a list of your preferences to use as a starting point. You might have to see a few therapists before settling on one, and you could find that the one you like best doesn’t exactly match up with your desired preferences. Much like with recommendations, it’s important to keep an open mind.
Call Therapists with Questions
Once you have some therapists to consider, call their offices, and ask if they 1) are accepting new clients and 2) if they accept your insurance. Some therapists have a limited number of slots for insurance clients. You can also ask about their availability, training or educational background, and office policies, including cancellation policy and fees. If you are uninsured or want to see someone not covered by your insurance, ask if the therapist works on a sliding fee scale.
Find Someone You Like
Rapport is key when looking for a therapist. “The most important thing is whether you feel comfortable opening up to this person and can work together to find a solution,” says Dorothea Lack, Ph.D., a psychologist in San Francisco, Calif. “If you don’t like the therapist, you’re not going to do well.”
Make an Initial Visit
When you visit a therapist for the first time, be prepared to answer questions about your personal history, family, and what brings you to therapy. Also bring a list of questions or concerns you’d like to address. Examples might include:
- What are the goals of treatment?
- What type of therapy is appropriate for my condition?
- Will the therapy be short term or long term?
- How structured are the therapy sessions?
Play the Field
An initial visit should give you a better sense of whether you’ll feel comfortable with a particular therapist. Don’t be afraid to visit multiple therapists before settling on one. It’s important to find someone whom you like and trust to get the most out of your therapy and treatment.
