How to Find a Therapist
Onward offers an array of wellness resources and tools, including tips, consultations with therapists and coaches, and support groups. All of these are designed to aid you through the divorce process. In addition to these resources, finding and working with a personal therapist can have great benefits. It can, however, be overwhelming to understand how to pick the right person.
With that in mind here’s a step-by-step guide to find the right person for you:
1. Determine What You’re Looking For
Specialization: Do you need a therapist for anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? Certain therapists specialize in different areas, so knowing what you need can help narrow your search. Some even specialize in divorce.
Type of Therapy: There are different types of therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). If you’re familiar with any approaches, you can look for a therapist who practices the one you think will be best for you.
In-person or Online: Do you want someone local, or would you prefer remote sessions – or maybe a combination of both?
2. Use Online Directories
There are several websites and directories where you can search for therapists based on your location, needs, and preferences:
Psychology Today (has a comprehensive therapist directory with filters for specialties, insurance, and more)
TherapyDen (diverse and inclusive, with a focus on different backgrounds)
BetterHelp or Talkspace (for online therapy)
ZocDoc (lets you search for in-person or telehealth therapists and book appointments online)
3. Ask for Recommendations
Friends or Family: If you’re comfortable, asking people you trust if they’ve worked with a therapist can yield trusted recommendations.
Primary Care Doctor: Your primary care physician can often recommend therapists, especially if you’ve been dealing with physical symptoms that may have a mental health connection.
Support Groups: Sometimes, people in support groups (online or in-person) can suggest therapists who specialize in certain areas.
4. Check Credentials and Experience
Licensing: Ensure the therapist is licensed in your state (LCSW, LMFT, LPC, etc.). Most licensed therapists are trained to handle a variety of issues, but make sure their training aligns with your needs.
Experience: Does the therapist have experience working with your specific concerns (e.g., divorce, anxiety, or other issues pertaining to your specific situation.)?
5. Consider Logistics
Insurance: Check if the therapist accepts your insurance, or if they offer sliding-scale fees if you’re paying out of pocket.
Availability: Look for someone whose availability matches yours. Some therapists have waitlists, so it’s good to ask about their current caseload.
Location: Decide if you’re open to virtual therapy or if you prefer in-person sessions. Make sure the therapist is accessible in either case.
6. Initial Consultation
Many therapists offer a brief phone consultation to help you assess if it’s a good fit. Use this opportunity to ask questions like:
- What is their approach to therapy?
- Have they worked with people who have similar issues to yours?
- How long have they been working in the field?
- What are their office policies regarding cancellation, payment, etc.?
7. Trust Your Gut
Therapy is a very personal experience, so the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and heard. If a therapist doesn’t feel like the right fit, it’s okay to try someone else.
8. Stay Open to the Process
Finding the right therapist can take some time, and it’s not unusual to try a few different ones before finding someone who clicks with you.
Do you have a specific area you’re looking for help with? Sign up for an Onward Online Support Group or reach out to Onward’s Chief Wellness Officer, Dr. Anders for help with suggestions or resources.