| Points to Consider
Is this psychotherapist qualified to help me?
There are many kinds of problems that people bring to therapists. By seeking the help of a licensed therapist, you insure that you are seeing a person with the basic qualifications, but almost all professionals have additional training. Consider a therapist’s experience, interests, and specialties when deciding on a therapist who is right for you. You can use this website to search for therapists who specialize in treating the particular problems that you are looking to address in therapy.
Just because a therapist is listed with an insurance company as a “preferred provider” does not mean that s/he is better qualified than one who is not listed. Most insurance companies screen therapists by checking that they’re licensed and carry malpractice insurance. Guild therapists are screened in exactly the same way. Many Guild therapists have resigned from provider lists because of ethical objections, particularly concerns about the confidentiality of their clients’ records and the control of decisions about the course of their therapy. (For more information on psychotherapists’ qualifications and what they mean, please read Types of Psychotherapy).
Does this person use a type of therapy that fits my needs?
Does the therapist work with the right age group? Is s/he able to offer what I’m looking forindividual, couples, family or group therapy? There are many effective types of psychotherapy. Each type may put different degrees of emphasis on feelings, thoughts, relationships or the unconscious. Ask the therapist you are interviewing how s/he would help you work on your issues and see if the response makes sense to you. (More on Types of Psychotherapy)
Do I feel comfortable with this person?
It is very important for you to feel comfortable with and respected by your therapist. Trust, openness, and honesty are crucial for therapy. In your initial consultation, you should assess your personal comfort level with your prospective therapist. If you do not feel comfortable enough with the therapist after the initial interview, you may want to consider interviewing other therapists before making a decision.
Don’t be surprised if, in your first meeting, you are nervousmost people are. Inner feelings and thoughts are hard to talk about, and it may take time to trust and feel comfortable. Don’t be surprised either if you open up almost immediately and share personal concerns. Many people experience great relief in finally having a chance to talk with a professional.
What does this therapist charge?
Therapists’ fees differ. Many therapists in the Guild directory have sliding scales that take into account your ability to pay for therapy. All Guild therapists will reduce their usual fee by 20% if you tell them you have located them through the Guild directory, pay directly at the time of service, and require no insurance forms or other paperwork.
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