Finding The Right Therapist
Deciding to turn your life around and getting the help you need to improve yourself is an incredible decision. But, it is one that requires some thought about who you should choose to embark on this healing journey with.
How to find the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist is very important to one’s healing process as this is the person that you are going to connect with on a deeper level and embark on the journey to healing with. My first experience with finding the right therapist was when I was eleven years being a victim of sexual abuse. I can recall the feelings of being afraid of the unknown, ashamed and most of all guilt. But, I knew that I wanted to overcome these feelings and become healed. Here are some qualities and tips that allowed me to find the RIGHT therapist and are sure to help you be able to make that decision for yourself:
Reliability (Openminded and understands your truth)
It’s important for the therapist that you decided to tell your innermost thoughts and feelings be able to relate to you.
Affordability
Let us be realistic, psychotherapy can be very expensive with costs of over $200 per session. Do not be afraid to inquire about a discounted rate.
Diverse in Cultural Competency
Having a culturally competent therapist allows the therapist to be able to understand how the clients’ culture may impact therapy. A culturally competent therapist can incorporate a clients’ belief system to promote healing.
Empathy
This allows your therapist to build a social connection with you in the therapeutic process. It is important for you physical and psychological well-being.
Willingness to listen unapologetically
Knowing that your therapist is non-biased and non-judgmental without having an agenda when it comes to the healing process. This will allow you to be able to release the burden you hold without fear of biases or judgement from the therapist you decide to have help you heal.
Ask someone you trust
Oftentimes, by talking to someone that we can trust they will be able to assist you in finding the right therapist as they are able to support you when needed. Additionally, they will become “safe support” as you go through the therapeutic journey.
Now, it is over thirty years later, all grown up. I know that to this very day, I can still pick up the phone and contact my therapist as she has made an everlasting impact on my life. This has led to me being a psychotherapist as well and starting SG Mental Health Counseling to promote empowerment, educate and provide mental health wellness.