Starting Therapy Part I
Hello!
There has also been much more conversation about childhood trauma and how it shows up in adult relationships, boundaries and the importance of having them, as well as encouragement to prioritize your mental health! With the end of the year approaching, more media on Mental health, improved benefits for mental health treatment, and the end of summer you may have accepted that you would benefit from having a safe space to express your emotions and thoughts. If you have found yourself considering therapy but do not know where to start or what to expect, I am here to help with this four part series.
Step One-seeking a therapist
As stated above you have accepted that you would benefit from having a safe space to express your thoughts and emotions. Now what? The next step is locating a therapist. This may be the most important step. I encourage individuals to treat looking for a therapist with as much determination as they do dating. The need for therapist is increasing as are the directories to locate therapist. Two directories I recommend are Psychology Today and Therapy For Black Girls. You may also check your insurance card for their directory for Mental Health providers in Network with you insurance provider. I would encourage you to check all three or more. While searching through the directories, keep these three things in mind:
Relatability. You want to identify how relatable you are to the person you plan to develop your therapeutic relationship with. Determine if race, age, gender, sexual preference matters. Do you want to be able to discuss religion openly or do you NOT want religion incorporated. Are there any cultural or ethnic practices that you want to incorporate into your treatment?
Availability. It is important that you are aware of when you can have the time to go to therapy. Do you want virtual sessions or do you prefer in person? A helpful tip may be to explore what flexibility you have (if any) particularly if you are really feeling drawn to a specific therapist. Evening and weekend appointments may not be always be available, if at all. Would you like a standing appointment or will you require flexibility from week to week.
Affordability. Being aware of the copay or the rate is also as important. Does the provider accept your insurance? Will your insurance be changing, if so does the provider accept the new insurance? Will you be paying out of pocket? Is there a sliding scale fee? Can you afford the rate (whether co-payment or Out of pocket) at the frequency recommended by the therapist. Additionally, some providers have a Pay what you can option, consider inquiring and exploring that option if needed.
I would encourage you to write this helpful information down, or at least keep it in mind while seeking your therapist. If you have any questions feel free to reach to me in the comments or via email. If you are currently in therapy, what was something that you thought was equally important?
If you or someone you know resonates with the information shared in this article and would like to attend therapy to assist with overcoming the above mentioned symptoms and are located in the states of NC, SC, VA, or MD you can click here to see my rates and/or the insurance I accept. You can click here to schedule a consultation or Initial Evaluation.
Disclaimer: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but I am not YOUR Licensed Clinical Social Worker. These blog posts are based on my personal opinions, reflections, and insights and are not intended to be taken as professional therapeutic intervention(s) and/or advice. Further, please note these blogs are not intended to serve as and/or replace formal counseling services. If you are in need or interested in taking part in direct therapeutic services, please contact your insurance provider’s customer service for assistance. You may also consult website such as (but not limited to) Psychology Today and Therapy for Black Girls to find a therapist. If you are located in NC, MD, SC, or VA and would like to work with me, click here to ensure I accept your insurance or check my rates and here to schedule an appointment.
