Finding A Therapist Near Me

Picking a therapist should be done much in the way that you choose any other important thing in your life.  Even when it comes to simple things most people take at least some time looking around and trying a few before settling on the right one.  I mean most of us don’t buy the first pair of shoes you try on.  You generally try several pairs and then get the ones that are the best fit for you and what you are looking for.  Therapy is the same way. 

You might be thinking… “well where do I go to get a therapist and how do I sign up?”  Some people go to websites that have directories like Psychologytoday.com while others might visit their insurance website to find a therapist.  The internet is a great way to search for a therapist and find out about them by visiting their website.  If you find a therapist or two that you think look interesting, don’t be shy, give them a call.  I say “or two” because therapists may not have space in their practice, their availability may not work with your schedule, or you may decide after talking to them that they aren’t a good fit for you. 

So, it’s best to contact several and see who gets back to you.  Most therapists will have a brief chat with you on the phone to get an idea of what you are coming in for and for you to gauge if you think they will be a good fit.  It’s ok if you talk to them and decided that you want to keep looking.  Just be honest and thank them for their time.  Then move on to the next one. 

When looking for a therapist you also have to decide if you are going to use your insurance or if you are going to pay out of pocket.  There are a lot of therapists out there that take insurance and a lot that don’t.  The first thing that needs to be said about insurance is that most insurers require a diagnosis in order to provide coverage.  A diagnosis might be something like depression or anxiety.  While lots of people seeking therapy would qualify for a diagnosis and insurance coverage, many people do not.  Lots of people would benefit from therapy and are seeking therapy, but, unfortunately, would not qualify for a diagnosis or insurance coverage. 

You also might look int the fact that some insurance companies will partially cover out of network providers.  In this case you would get invoices from your therapist and submit them to your insurance provider for reimbursement.  Once again this varies from plan to plan and insurance provider to insurance provider.  So, check your plan and ask questions. 

Paying out of pocket also gives you more privacy.  When you use your insurance they have access to your health records for billing purposes.  They must keep that information private by law, in the same way that I do, but they have access non the less, and some people don’t like that. 

This might seem like a lot of information and a lot to think about.  I assure you that once you start the search and talk to a therapist or two the process usually goes smoothly.  Therapists are used to walking people through the process and are generally very welcoming.  Try to keep in mind why you sought therapy in the first place, take a deep breath, and then another.  Sometimes taking those first steps are the hardest, but also the most rewarding. If you have any questions feel free to reach out, or schedule a free 15 minute consultation and let’s see where that leads us.