Finding the Right Therapist
Finding the right therapist can be similar to finding a game that fits YOU – sometimes, the first one you try isn't the one that resonates with you, and that's perfectly okay. Just as you might explore different genres in gaming to find what truly captivates you, the journey to find a therapist who truly understands and connects with you can require some 'shopping around'.
Here's some advice for this important quest:
Know Your Needs: Reflect on what you're looking for in therapy. Is it support for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or something else? Knowing your needs will help you find someone who is a good fit. However, don’t let that be a hang-up if you don’t know your needs. Just reach out to a potential therapist and let them know. They’ll walk you through identifying those needs.
First Impressions Count, But They're Not Everything: After your first session, ask yourself how you felt. Comfortable? Understood? It's normal not to feel an instant connection, but you shouldn't feel dismissed or uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong, therapy can be uncomfortable, but is it a good uncomfortable that comes with growing, or a yucky uncomfortable?
Give It a Little Time: Sometimes, it takes a few sessions to really get into the 'gameplay' of therapy. If the first session didn't click, consider giving it one or two more tries, unless you felt really off about it.
Change is Okay: If you feel that your therapist isn't the right fit after giving it a fair chance, it's okay to look for someone else. Your mental health journey is important, and finding the right fit for this journey is crucial.
Seek Recommendations and Research: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from friends or healthcare professionals. Additionally, researching therapists' profiles, reviews, and their areas of expertise can be incredibly helpful.
Listen to Your Gut: Trust your instincts. If something feels off, or if you feel exceptionally comfortable with a therapist, those feelings are important indicators.
Remember, the therapist-client relationship is a personal and vital one. It's about finding someone who not only has the qualifications but also the right approach and understanding that aligns with your personality and needs.
Keep an open mind, be patient with yourself, and know that it's completely normal to search until you find the right match. Your mental health is worth the effort.
Find a therapist at one of the sites below:
Psychology Today - Psychologytoday.com
Therapy for Black Girls - Therapyforblackgirls.com