This article originally appeared on Bonita Semana.
COVID-19 has been hard on everyone. Now, more than ever, people are looking to start therapy to have a space where they won't feel judged, to address their anxieties, to understand their emotions, and/or to set work-from-home boundaries. Finding the right therapist can be hard. Here are five tips to make it easier for you to find a therapist.
1. Ask them if they accept insurance and how they help with out-of-network reimbursements.
Though not all therapists accept insurance, they can all help you submit forms to get some money back from your insurance company. If you're looking for someone in your insurance network, use websites like www.therapyden.com, www.zencare.co, and www.headway.co to find a therapist. Clinicians on Psychology Today often check off all the insurances they accept only to later tell you it’s through your out-of-network benefits.
2. "What is your area of expertise?"
It is essential that you work with a therapist who can help you with the problem/stressor you are presenting. Trauma counselors are not trained the same way as sex therapists. Make sure that you find someone that is devoted to a speciality that can help you get the most out of your treatment.
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3. Ask them about their specific approach.
As a trained professional, a therapist utilizes a specific approach to help you. Do you want someone that will be more active in therapy? Do you want someone that can provide you with concrete tools to help you in your daily life or are you looking for someone who will simply listen as you let our your feelings? Make sure that you find a therapist that is the best fit for you.
4. Check in about their license and education.
This is especially important for insurance reimbursement. A therapist must be licensed in the state where you live to be able to practice there. By asking about their education and training, you can get a feel for the therapist's experience. Therapists who have been working longer are not necessarily better for you - but a therapist who has never treated an issue like the one you’d like to discuss may not possess the skills needed to help you.
5. Lastly, research indicates that 84% of therapists are white.
Want someone who can understand your background and cultural values? Ask them "what work have you done to understand your own racial identity?" If they are not working on their healing, how can they guide you?
And remember - it's okay to change your therapist. If you start therapy and don’t feel like it’s a good fit after a few sessions, don't hesitate to find a new therapist.