Finding The Right Therapist

 There is a multitude of therapists to choose from when seeking counseling. How do we find the right person to counsel us? Is there a way to find the perfect fit? These are questions I have had myself and I am sure many others can say the same. Every time I went back to counseling, I would do extensive research on different counselors and centers around me, trying to find someone who I believed would be the perfect fit for me. If you have been on that same journey, or are just starting that journey, do not fret. I have accumulated some tips over the years that have worked for me and hopefully, they will work for you too. Remember, everybody works well with different people. Just because one therapist works for me does not mean that person will work for you. These tips are to make your search for a therapist easier and beneficial for you. 

1. Find who takes your insurance

This is one of the fastest ways I narrow down the numerous therapists in my area. It can be overwhelming when looking at every therapist in your area, but when you narrow it down to only those who take your insurance, it automatically makes it less overwhelming! One way you can do this is on Psychology Today. Just put in your zip code or city, select the insurance filter, and choose whichever one you have! This will allow you to see only the therapists who take your insurance. 

2. Find someone who shares the same beliefs as you

If you are religious, spiritual, or want someone with the same values as you, you can narrow down your search even more to find therapists with the same beliefs. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Atheist, or affiliated with another religion/spiritual practice, perhaps finding someone in your same category will be beneficial. This is also something you can do on Psychology Today or by filtering it in your Google search. You can also contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. and ask what therapist’s beliefs at this center might work best with yours.

3. Knowing your goals for therapy

Your reason for going to therapy is a defining factor when searching for a therapist. You want to find someone who is knowledgeable and specializes in your area of concern. If you are going for your anxiety, find someone who specializes in anxiety. The same goes for depression, OCD, grief, post-partum, sexuality, etc. 

4. Research different types of therapy

There are many different types of therapy. Doing some research to find out what kind of therapy aligns with your therapy goals will be very helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common kinds of therapy and is often used to help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and focusing on the underlying thoughts and behavior. There is also dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) which is commonly used for borderline personality disorder, suicide, and self-harm. Think about your reasoning for going to therapy and find the one that best aligns with that reason/goal. 

If you are dealing with any mental health issues or life adjustments and want to speak to a professional counselor, please feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 167th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477. We would be happy to be of service. 

Written by: Emme D. 

Undergrad Intern 2024