Minisode 2 | April 5, 2022
How do I find a therapist and what should I expect from the process?
Our second minisode, in a series about mental health support, discusses what to look for when searching for a provider.
INTRO
Welcome to “That’s a Hard No” – the podcast about saying no and setting boundaries so you can become the authentic and empowered you that this world needs.
Reminder: While Sarah is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, this podcast is in no way a replacement for one-on-one therapy with a mental health professional. If you are struggling with mental health issues, we welcome you on this journey, but also invite you to seek out professional help.
Looking for a therapist? Here’s a good place to start: psychologytoday.com
SHOW NOTES
In season 2 of That’s a Hard No, we’re making it a priority to dig deeper into the process of finding and utilizing the mental health support you may need. We’re taking some time to discuss with our “in-house expert,” Sarah Saunders, what to expect from therapy and all of its intricacies.
How To Find a Therapist & What to Expect From the Process
- Think about finances, Does this therapist take your insurance? Are you willing to pay private or out-of-network costs? People often avoid the topic of money, especially in times of high stress, but what you pay for therapy should be transparent. Knowing if your therapist uses a super bill is another important point.
- Where to look/Who to ask, There are many avenues to finding therapists in close proximity – though this may not give you the best information for how effective their services are. Psychologytoday.com and other therapy search sites allow you to filter according to conditions or types of therapy which helps you to find the right kind of therapist for your needs. Another great resource is your primary care physician or (for your children) pediatrician. They generally have a network of providers they know and trust.
- Remember clear communication, When you do speak with a potential therapist communication should be clear. It’s important that during these exploratory conversations or intake sessions that you feel listened to and leave without questions about what they are willing to provide.
- Know what you’re looking for, Sometimes this is hard to nail down, oftentimes we don’t know exactly what we need, but it is important to have an idea of what you want and need support with. This helps narrow down your search and describe your needs effectively to those you are interested in working with.
- Try to be patient, The need for mental health care is higher than ever. Try not to lose hope if you have reached out and response is slow or there are wait lists. Providers are overwhelmed by the current climate and do truly want to support and help those in need.
Red Flags
- Confusion, Your therapist has been trained in communication, if you leave an appointment or conversation without all of your questions answered or there were vague explanations, this may be a red flag or this provider may not be the right fit for you.
- A plan without the details, If the therapist gives you a care plan within the first few minutes of meeting this may be a red flag. It’s difficult for therapists to create treatment plans without understanding your needs fully and getting to know you.
Credits and Thanks
- Many thanks to our friends and families (our “villagers”) for listening, and for your continued support.
- That’s a Hard No is a joint production of Clever Girl Marketing and Purposeful Growth & Wellness.
- Marketing and Production Coordinator, Maura Del Rosario.
- Production Support, Evergreen Podcasts, Noah Foutz, Producer.
- Music: “Whiskey for Lunch” by GG Rigs.