Locating A Counselor Or Psychotherapist Who’s Best For You

If you’ve been in therapy previously, you probably know it’s a life-changing process. If you never have, you may not know the things to look for in a therapist or counselor. Either way, you might not know what questions to ask a prospective counselor.

Often before people begin therapy, they’ve tried just about everything else to make changes in their lives. But nothing has worked – at least not for very long. As the emotional discomfort turns to anguish, it’s not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Why not try therapy? I have to do something to stop the pain.”

Unfortunately, when we’re hurting a lot, we typically don’t think clearly, and many people turn to counseling and therapy (whether for individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, or family therapy) without asking any questions of the prospective therapist.

However, there is more to choosing a counselor than picking up a phone and making an appointment.

Asking the Right Questions

Almost anyone can call themselves a counselor, so choosing someone to work with based on this title offers no clues about the person’s credentials, schooling or integrity and almost no protection in the event you receive substandard service.

Titles along the lines of marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist are only allowed to be used by professionals with the matching qualifications who’ve acquired specialized education and instruction.

Moreover, licensed mental health professionals such as these ought to be members in good standing with their associated licensing entities. Verifying a license will allow you to discover something concerning the instruction and training the mental health professional has gone through and gives you some degree of safety should you receive inadequate or inappropriate treatment.

Yet, verifying a mental health professional’s license and credentials doesn’t give you a great deal of information regarding their specialized learning, experience and whether they’ll be able to meet your needs.

The only way you can learn if a therapist or counselor is able to deliver the assistance you need is by asking them questions, such as:

What age ranges do you treat?

What issues do you handle?

What kind of education and training have you had?

How long have you been providing therapy?

Have you been in therapy yourself?

How do you work with clients that helps them get better?

Do you belong to any professional organizations?

Do you regularly update your instruction and education?

You needn’t ask every one of these – especially in an initial appointment when you need lots of time to talk yourself. But do ask them. And trust your impression of safety with the psychotherapist in the initial session. Perhaps the most significant determinant of effective counseling is the bond or “fit” between both you and your psychotherapist. Unless you feel relaxed and safe with your psychotherapist, it will be practically impossible for you to do the deep, insightful work needed to heal and thrive.

Other than determining the qualifications, training, and capabilities of a counselor and exactly how comfortable and safe you are with them, the therapist should ask various questions about you and your circumstances. They too need to ensure there exists an acceptable match between your personality, expectations and goals and who they are and the services they provide.

The therapist should ask you what brings you to therapy, as well as about your family and general history. They may also ask questions about your childhood, education, social relationships, romantic relationships, career and current living situation.

Don’t forget, even excellent counselors aren’t going to be the most helpful for every individual, and no therapist can competently treat anything and everything. When considering a therapist, have them provide an example of a problem that is outside the extent of their practice, or that they are insufficiently educated to treat. If they can’t or do not reply, you’ve just done away with a prospect. Every mental health professional should be prepared to refer you to other providers at your request.

Where to Begin Your Search

To identify a counselor or psychotherapist that’s right for you, start out your research by asking a family doctor, clergy or any other qualified service providers you rely on for referrals.

You may also ask trusted friends or family, or you can search the Internet for counselors in your area. But be aware, an exceptional ad or Web page isn’t going to make a therapist skilled or experienced. Ask the therapist about their education and expertise directly, regardless of whether you obtain a recommendation from a reliable source.

As with choosing any service provider, doing some homework and making an informed decision about whom to work with will increase the likelihood that counseling will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. Don’t be shy or afraid to ask point-blank questions… After all, this is about your future health, well-being and happiness!

Mark Tinley is a counselor and therapist in Pasadena, CA, where he specializes in providing therapy and counseling services.