Locating A Counselor Or Psychotherapist Who’s Best For You
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If you’ve been in therapy previously, you probably know it’s a life-changing process. If you never have, you may not know the things to look for in a therapist or counselor. Either way, you might not know what questions to ask a prospective counselor.
Frequently before people start counseling, they’ve considered just about everything else to adjust their lives. Nevertheless little or nothing has done the trick – certainly not for an extended time. As emotional discomfort turns to anguish, it’s not at all uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Why not try therapy? I have to do something to end the pain.”
Alas, whenever we’re hurting significantly, we often don’t think clearly, and numerous people turn to counseling and therapy (be it for individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, or family counseling) without questioning the prospective counselor.
However, there is more to choosing a counselor than picking up a phone and making an appointment.
Asking the Right Questions
Almost anyone can call themselves a counselor, so choosing someone to work with based on this title offers no clues about the person’s credentials, schooling or integrity and almost no protection in the event you receive substandard service.
Titles, such as marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist can only be used by persons with the corresponding credentials who’ve received specific education and training.
Furthermore, licensed mental health practitioners such as these ought to be members in good standing with their respective licensing entities. Verifying this information will let you know a little about the degree and preparation the mental health practitioner has gained and gives you some amount of safety in the event that you experience sub-standard or inappropriate treatment.
That having been said, verifying a mental health practitioner’s license and qualifications doesn’t give very many details about their particular learning, competence and whether they’ll suit your needs.
The only way you’ll be able to determine whether a counselor or therapist is qualified to provide you the assistance you need is directly asking them qustions, such as:
What age ranges do you treat?
What problems do you work with?
What type of training and skills have you acquired?
How many years have you been providing therapy?
Have you been in therapy?
How do you work with clients to help them heal?
Are you a member of any professional organizations?
Do you regularly update your instruction and education?
You needn’t ask all of these – especially in a first session when you need a lot of time to talk yourself. But do ask them. And trust your sense of safety with the therapist in the first session. One of the most important determinants of successful counseling is the connection or “fit” between you and your therapist. If you don’t feel comfortable and safe with the therapist you’re working with, it will be nearly impossible for you to do the deep honest work necessary to heal and grow.
Other than determining the qualifications, training, and capabilities of a counselor and exactly how comfortable and safe you are with them, the therapist should ask various questions about you and your circumstances. They too need to ensure there exists an acceptable match between your personality, expectations and goals and who they are and the services they provide.
The counselor will need to question you about what brings you to counseling, as well as about your family members and general past. They will also ask questions regarding your childhood, schooling, interpersonal relationships, intimate relationships, vocation and present circumstances.
Don’t forget, even excellent counselors aren’t going to be the most helpful for every individual, and no therapist can competently treat anything and everything. When considering a therapist, have them provide an example of a problem that is outside the extent of their practice, or that they are insufficiently educated to treat. If they can’t or do not reply, you’ve just done away with a prospect. Every mental health professional should be prepared to refer you to other providers at your request.
Where to Begin Your Search
To identify a counselor or psychotherapist that’s right for you, start out your research by asking a family doctor, clergy or any other qualified service providers you rely on for referrals.
You may also ask trusted friends or family members, or you can search the Internet for therapists near you. Just keep in mind, a good ad or Web page doesn’t make a therapist qualified or experienced. Ask the counselor about their qualifications and experience directly, even if you receive a referral from a trusted source.
As with choosing any service provider, doing some homework and making an informed decision about whom to work with will increase the likelihood that counseling will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. Don’t be shy or afraid to ask point-blank questions… After all, this is about your future health, well-being and happiness!
Learn more about counseling and therapy in Pasadena, CA by visiting Mark Tinley’s website: http://practicegrowingcounseling.com/.
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