I have known many people who have continued seeing a therapist or counselor that they didn’t feel comfortable with out of feelings of obligation or guilt. Choosing a therapist should be done thoughtfully and with much consideration. This is a person you are entrusting with very personal information and intimate details about your life. You are believing this is someone who can guide you through a difficult time. It is not a relationship to be begun in haste or taken lightly.
Begin by getting recommendations from friends and relatives. If you do not feel comfortable letting those close to you know that you are seeking counseling, get recommendations from your doctor or your insurance company. Do not be afraid that your information will be shared without your knowledge. In order for any information to be shared by your new therapist, you must sign a release of information form.
Be honest with yourself. If you prefer a male therapist to a female, or a younger person to an older, say so. This is not the time to be “politically correct”. This is your therapeutic relationship you are building and you need to feel comfortable. At the same time I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and do not discount a therapist because of their sex or age, you may be pleasantly surprised at what you find!
Collect a listing of names; don’t stop at just a few. You need to be prepared for counselors who do not return your call or those who are not taking new clients. You do not want to have to begin your search again from scratch just because you only got two or three recommendations.
Have a list of questions prepared to ask when you make your calls. Feel free to ask about the therapist’s education, experience, fees, etc. He or she should have no problem in answering your questions. If you don’t like what you hear or the vibe you are getting on the telephone, remember you do not have to commit to an appointment!
Be prepared to attend a few introductory sessions before making a commitment to a therapist. You do not have to feel obligated to make a second appointment if you do not feel comfortable in continuing. Talk to the counselor about your feelings, a true professional will understand and entertain your concerns.
Remember the relationship between you and your therapist will either help or hinder the progress you make. Take the time to do your homework and find the fit that is right for you.
Tracie is a licensed social worker who has been providing clinical services to those in the New York/ Connecticut area for over thirteen years. She has worked and collaborated with schools, hospitals, community agencies and organizations to provide quality, client centered counseling and educational programming. Tracie is the founder of Harmoniously Whole LLC, providers of holistic based counseling and life coaching services. Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/mental-health-articles/choosing-the-right-therapist-1570180.html
www.harmoniouslywhole.com
