Some Things to Look for When Selecting a Therapist
Author: Candea Mosley
Before I became a therapist, there were ways my culture, media, and social connections constructed what a therapist is supposed to look and sound like. I knew they would listen to my problems and say “mmhmm” and write on a clipboard. I had no knowledge of how to begin choosing one, what I needed from them, nor how to interact with one. After completing my graduate program and engaging with my own therapist identity, I wondered, “what kind of therapist are people looking for and how can I fit that need?” When looking for my own therapist (Yes! Therapists need their own therapist sometimes, too!), here are a couple of questions that I found helpful on my search:
What Will My Therapist Look like?
It can be helpful to know some of the characteristics that may be important to you. For example, folks might consider the therapist’s ethnic background, gender, specialty focus, and style. Some folks may be looking for someone that shares the same ethnic experience in hopes that they will have a deeper cultural understanding. Some folks may feel more comfortable working with a therapist of the same gender or opposite to explore something new. For some folks, many of these things are not as important and just want to be seen.
Does their style Fit?
Some therapists practice from an emotion-focused lens, some from an attachment lens, some lend themselves to be more collaborative, and some are tool-based. Picking a therapist that has a theoretical framework that fits your lived experiences and problems can be helpful to consider.
What happens If the therapist just does not work out?
If you try a therapist and don’t like it, take a break, or allow yourself the flexibility to try again. It is like dating to find the ideal match for you. We welcome you for whatever reason brings you to us. We are here for you.😊
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