Category: therapist

Continuing the Journey from “Is Therapy For Me?” (last week’s post)

Welcome back, readers! Last week, we delved into the crucial aspects of deciding whether therapy is the right path for you in my blog titled “Is Therapy For Me?” We explored the nuances of recognizing when it’s time to seek therapy, addressing concerns about entering therapy, understanding the benefits, exploring types of therapy, and finding the best therapist fit. Today, we’re taking the next step on your therapeutic journey. This post is all about getting started successfully, ensuring that you embark on this path with confidence and purpose. So, let’s go!

Ways to Find Therapists

Before you start the process of finding the right therapist, it’s important to know where to look. Here are three effective ways:

1. Word of Mouth: Personal recommendations can be gold. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with therapists. Their insights can guide you toward therapists who may be a good fit for you, but remember, just because someone is good for one person doesn’t mean they’ll be good for another. You know how you can be similar to friends, yet so different? Think of it like that. YOU need your best fit.
2. Online Databases: Numerous online platforms curate lists of therapists, complete with profiles and reviews. Websites like Psychology Today can help you explore a variety of therapists and their specialties. And as for reviews, sometimes it can make or break your decision, so take a second to read them, even on general sites like Google because you never know where someone left their thoughts.
3. Insurance: If you have health insurance, check their provider directory (usually under “behavioral health”). This can narrow down your options based on therapists who accept your insurance (in your state), making the financial aspect more manageable.

Now you may have 2-3 good therapist leads. So what do you do next?

How Therapists May Begin: A Variety of Approaches

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential therapists, the next step is reaching out. Therapists often initiate the process in several ways:

1. Consultation Call: Some therapists offer a free initial consultation call. This is an opportunity for you to briefly discuss your concerns, ask questions, and get a sense of the therapist’s approach and personality. It’s a taste of the therapeutic journey you may take together.
2. Straight to Intake: Other therapists may prefer diving right into the intake process. This involves scheduling a full session (usually an hour) to gather detailed information about you, your history, and your current challenges. It’s a more immediate approach.
3. Scheduling Online or by Phone: Many therapists provide the convenience of online scheduling or booking appointments over the phone. This can be a straightforward way to secure your first session without the need for a preliminary call. Sometimes you schedule the consultation call this way as well, which then leads to scheduling the intake session at a time and date agreed upon.

Make sense? OK, great. Let’s keep going.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your First Contact

Warning! This is a section you may want to save. Go on, cut and paste, snip ‘n stitch, screenshot…

Alright, let’s continue.

Preparing for your first therapy contact involves introspection. Ask yourself questions to gather your thoughts, like what your intent for therapy is (aka goals) and what makes you feel able to open up to someone.

• Timing: Asking yourself why you’re seeking therapy right now is important. Sometimes a therapist may even ask you this when you speak. There’s a pressing reason, or a motivation, for reaching out to a therapist at this point in your life. The answer can be extremely helpful on your journey in therapy.
• Specific Concerns: What issues do you want to address in therapy? Anything weighing on you for months or years? Something that just happened? Anywhere you feel stuck? How’s your life being affected (relationships, school, etc.)? Look for a therapist who specializes in your need.
• Goals: What do you aim to achieve through therapy? Sometimes the intent is broad (feeling better) and sometimes specific (being able to focus on schoolwork for 1 hour).
• Comfort Level: Are you comfortable with the gender, personality, or cultural background of your therapist? What mode of therapy do you prefer (online, in-person, group)? If in person, what’s your preferred location? What frequency of therapy do you want (weekly, biweekly, etc.)? What frequency can your budget allow?

Great stuff, huh?

Unlocking the Benefits of Online Therapy

Since I offer online therapy for Florida residents, I want to tell you more about the benefits of it, no matter what state you live in.

1. Convenience and Flexibility

Online therapy eliminates geographical constraints, allowing you to connect with a therapist from the comfort of your own space. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or even traveling (within state), therapy sessions become more flexible, accommodating your lifestyle and reducing the logistical hurdles of in-person appointments.

2. Access to a Diverse Pool of Therapists

One of the key advantages of online therapy is the ability to choose from a broad spectrum of therapists regardless of their physical location. This means you can find a therapist who not only specializes in your specific concerns but also aligns with your cultural background, language preferences, or unique needs.

3. Reduced Stigma and Increased Privacy

For some, the stigma associated with seeking therapy can be a barrier. Online therapy provides a level of privacy that traditional in-person sessions may not offer. The sessions can be conducted from the privacy of your own space, offering a sense of security and reducing the fear of being seen entering a therapist’s office.

4. Time and Cost Efficiency

Online therapy often comes with cost savings compared to traditional therapy. With no need for commuting or additional expenses related to an office setting, you can allocate your resources more efficiently. Additionally, the time saved from travel can be invested directly into self-care or other commitments.

5. Consistent Support, Anytime, Anywhere

Life doesn’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do the challenges we face. Online therapy provides the flexibility to connect with your therapist during evenings or weekends, ensuring consistent support when you need it most. This accessibility can be a game-changer for those with unpredictable schedules or time zone differences.

6. Comfort and Familiarity

Being in your own environment during therapy can foster a sense of comfort and familiarity. This relaxed setting can encourage open and honest communication, allowing you to delve deeper into your thoughts and emotions without the potential distractions or discomfort associated with a new and unfamiliar office space.

See, the benefits online therapy offers make it a valuable option for young adults seeking a convenient and effective path to personal growth and well-being. As you consider your therapeutic journey, exploring the possibilities of online therapy may open new doors to success and self-discovery.

Your Journey Begins Here

Embarking on the therapeutic journey is an empowering step. By asking the right questions and actively seeking a therapist who aligns with your needs, you’re setting the stage for a transformative experience. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and finding the right fit is key to its success.

I hope this post helped you and maybe a friend (I always want my posts shared so spread the knowledge!). If you’re ready to take the next step for your successful future or have additional questions about the therapeutic process, I’m here to help. Explore my services and let’s start this journey together.

Contact Me in 4 Easy Ways (for therapy):

• Click the yellow “Book Online” button above for your free 15 minute phone consultation 
• If you have insurance, schedule the call through Headway
• Fill out the form below for your call (I’ll contact you by secure voice and/or text to schedule our consultation time) 
• Call me at 321-415-0832 

***Must be living in Florida to receive my therapy services. It’s OK if your permanent address is in another state and you attend college in Florida!

If you need immediate assistance, please call 911 or call/text with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. For LGBTQIA+ specific support, visit https://www.thetrevorproject.org/.

Copyright © 2024 Imagine Change Counseling, LLC. All rights reserved.