How to Get Started with Therapy: Where to Look, What to Consider, and What a Consultation Phone Call is Like
Jessica Bell
May 11, 2022
“Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder
Therapy can be an incredibly useful tool for managing mental health issues, improving relationships, and dealing with other personal challenges. However, finding the right therapist can be a daunting task.
How do you know where to look? What should you consider when choosing a therapist? And what is a consultation phone call like? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and provide some guidance on getting started with therapy.
What is therapy?
Therapy is the process of treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with the aim of improving an individual's overall functioning. It can be provided in a variety of settings, such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, community mental health centers and private practices. Recently, online therapy sessions have been gaining popularity for its convenience and easy accessibility.
There are many different types of therapy available, each with its own unique approach. Some of the most popular types of therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy.
Where to look for a therapist?
There are many places to look for a potential therapist. You can start by asking your primary care physicians for a referral, searching online directories (such as the American Psychological Association’s Therapist Locator,) or looking up therapy practices in your local yellow pages.
Another great way to find a therapist is to ask friends, family, mental health organizations or other professionals (such as your clergyperson or doctor) for recommendations. Once you have a few names, you can research the therapists online to learn more about their approaches to therapy and whether they might be a good fit for you. Online search tools such as search engines and social media can be a good way to look for a helpful therapist or a counseling center near you as well.
What should you consider when looking for a therapist?
When choosing a therapist, it is important to consider your needs and goals for therapy. For example, if you are seeking therapy for substance abuse, you may want to choose a therapist who specializes in treating it. It is also important to consider the therapist’s training, experience, and approach to therapy.
Ultimately, choosing the right therapist is a personal decision as it also boils down to the therapist's personality and how you feel during the therapy sessions. A good therapist makes you feel connected and comfortable talking about your issues and specific concerns. They help make a positive change not just in your mental health and well being.
After the process of establishing a relationship with your therapist, you will know if your therapist is a good match for you. If you feel like you are not establishing a strong relationship with your therapist, you can always switch therapists.
What is a phone consultation like?
A consultation phone call is a brief conversation with a therapist to help you determine if they are the right fit for you. During the call, the therapist will ask about your reasons for seeking therapy, your therapy goals and other basic information. They will also answer any questions you have about their approach to therapy and their practice. This is a good opportunity for clients to get a feel for their therapist and assess if they are a good match.
Looking for a therapist is a process that does not have to be a daunting one. Therapists are here to help you overcome your struggles. Your mental health is of utmost importance; there is no shame in asking for help to make it better.
Here at Mosaic Minds Counseling, we care about your mental health. Visit the website for more information and do not hesitate to reach out. The therapist you need might just be with us!
