How to find a mental health therapist?

If you’re considering seeking mental health therapy, it’s important to find a therapist who is a good fit for you. Here are some tips for finding a mental health therapist:

Determine your needs:

The first step in finding a therapist is to consider what you’re looking for in terms of support. Do you have a specific issue you want to address, such as anxiety or depression? Are you looking for a therapist with a specific approach, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapy? Having a clear understanding of your needs can help you narrow down your search.  If you need help deciding, you can call us at Long Beach Therapy at 562.310.9741.

Consider your budget:

Therapy can be costly, so it’s important to consider your budget. Can you afford weekly therapy or do you need to look for a therapist who is willing to see you less often so you don’t break your bank?  Ultimately, not going to therapy can be costly too (a divorce is expensive, missing work because of depression and/or anxiety can also be expensive).

Look for referrals:

Asking friends, family, or your primary care doctor for referrals can be a good way to find a therapist. Ultimately, it is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with.  If you have an appointment with a therapist and don’t like them, try a different therapist.

Research the therapist:

Once you have a list of potential therapists, it’s important to do your research. Check out their websites and read reviews to get a sense of their approach and what past clients have experienced. It’s also a good idea to call the therapist or their office to ask questions and get a feel for their style.

Consider your comfort level:

Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is crucial to the success of therapy. It’s important to find someone you feel comfortable talking to and trust. If you don’t feel comfortable with the first therapist you see, don’t be afraid to try someone else. It’s 100% okay to “shop around”.

Ultimately, finding a mental health therapist is a personal process, and it may take some time to find someone who is a good fit for you. It’s important to be patient and keep looking until you find someone who meets your needs and feels like a good fit. Remember, seeking therapy is a brave and proactive step towards improving your mental health and well-being.

If you are ready to start therapy, call us at Long Beach Therapy to learn about in person therapy in Long Beach as well as  online therapy options.