How to choose best therapist for you?

Understanding that one needs counseling and deciding to go for the sessions can be a big decision for anyone. The therapist aims to help you manage your emotions, build healthier relationships and understand yourselves better. Therapist also can assess, diagnose and treat various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and eating disorders.  However, there are a few things you might want to consider when choosing a therapist that would be best suitable for you.

Things to consider when choosing a therapist for yourself:

1. Gender: Who do you think you would feel comfortable with? Male or Female?
   
   
2. Age: What age group would you like to work with? Is it someone older, younger or someone around your own age?
   
   
3. Cost: Is it within your budget at that counseling center? Can you afford if there are multiple sessions? Are there other options available?
   
   
4. Specialty: What does the counselor specializes in or is trained for? Is it suitable for you? They could be specialized in substance abuse, sexual abuse, marriage and relationships or family counseling. You should choose one that can help you in your specific area of concern.
   
   
5. Time: The counseling sessions usually requires multiple visits as it equips you with life-long solutions and not a quick fix. It is necessary to separate some time each week for the sessions.
   
   
6. Protocols: What are the rules of appointment at the center? You should determine if you have to book an appointment a few days early, about the time schedule and payment for appointment.
   
   
7. Online: Is there a problem receiving counseling in person? Can you receive counsel through online services? Is there any prevalence of such services available?
   
   

   When to seek counseling:

• If uncertain about yourself or certain situation
• Avoiding people and social situations
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Feeling sad and upset most of the time
• Changes in mood very frequently
• Problems in relationships

  
  How to know they are good therapist?

• When they are easy to talk to.
• They discuss with you about confidentiality and its related content.
• They don’t judge you negatively.
• They help you be in control of your emotions and actions.
• They work in team with you in helping you deal with your issues.

When to leave your therapist and find a new one:

• If they talk about themselves a lot
• Don’t provide feedback to you
• Is distracted and doesn’t give you undivided attention during your sessions
• Acts too friendly and treats you like a friend instead of a client
• Gives you advice as well as tells you what you should or shouldn’t do

When you can trust your therapist and express complex thoughts and feelings the way you feel comfortable, a good therapist can make you understand yourself more deeply. They can help increase your resilience and self-worth.

Hence, finding a right match for the therapy session is very crucial step that needs extra attention and research.