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8 Questions To Ask When Deciding On The Right Therapist

It can be a bit overwhelming to look for a therapist, let’s face it. You want to make sure the other person really understands the vulnerable part of your life that you’re sharing. Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in the world, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, disorientation, or simply trying to gain a deeper understanding of yourself.

However, how can you determine who is best for you? There are countless names, degrees, certifications, and therapeutic approaches available. You may wonder: Are they real? Are they going to condemn me? If this works, can I afford to continue?

These are important questions, not trivial ones. You’re establishing a relationship that calls for comfort, trust, and understanding—you’re not merely hiring a professional. In addition to being qualified and licensed, you need someone who you click with emotionally. Someone whose strategies make sense to you. Someone who actually hears you.

The most crucial questions to ask when thinking about a therapist are outlined in this guide to help you sort through the clutter. We’ll go over the fundamentals, such as what degrees and licenses to seek, what experience is most important for your particular situation, how various forms of therapy operate, and whether medication should be a part of your treatment plan. We’ll also discuss the practical aspects, such as how long sessions usually last, how frequently you’ll meet, potential costs, and how to discuss fees if funds are limited.

After all, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. It is intensely human, strong, and intimate. And it can be one of the most liberating choices you ever make if you have the right help.

What degrees do they possess, in what fields, and did they receive it from an accredited institution?

Okay, these are technically three questions, but they are closely tied together. You would first want to make sure the therapist has a Master’s degree, PhD or medical degree in psychiatry, psychology, social work, or counseling. A graduate degree ensures they have extensive knowledge and training in their field. It is also important to be certain that they received the degree from an academic institution that is recognized by an accreditation body and not something they purchased from Diploma Mill University.