There are a variety of reasons you might be looking for a mental health therapist, all of which are valid. Maybe you just went through a divorce, are struggling with anxiety or depression, or need to talk through a major life change like a move to a new city.
Everyone has different needs and personalities, meaning not everyone will need the same kind of therapist. Thinking about what you’re comfortable with and what you want to get out of therapy can help you choose a therapist who’s the right match for you.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a deeper understanding of:
- What a mental health therapist is
- Things to consider when picking a therapist
- Where to search for a therapist
- How to tell if a therapist is the right fit for you
- What to know about switching therapists
- Where to turn for extra mental health support in New Jersey
If you or a loved one is looking for a therapist, you’re in the right place. The mental health professionals at Renewed Light Mental Health offer compassionate, personalized care designed to meet you where you are. Contact us at any time to get your questions answered, your concerns addressed, or your first appointment scheduled.
What Is a Mental Health Therapist?
A mental health therapist is a licensed professional who helps people with emotional, behavioral, or psychological challenges. They’re trained to help with everything from daily stressors to serious disorders like depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, and PTSD.
Therapists can hold various titles, including:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD)
- Psychiatrist (MD or DO)
Some therapists work with a certain demographic, like kids, teens, or adults. Others might focus on just one area of concern, like OCD. No matter their background, the right therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Therapist
When it comes to therapy, you shouldn’t have to settle. As you search for a therapist in South Jersey, there are some questions you’ll want to ask yourself (and the therapist) to ensure your comfort and healing.
1. Insurance Coverage and Cost
Before picking a therapist, it’s important to understand what your health insurance plan will cover and what your budget is. Find out:
- Whether the therapist accepts your insurance or is out-of-network
- If there are limits on how many sessions you can attend each year
- Whether payment plans or sliding scale options are available
Knowing your options ahead of time can help you plan and commit to therapy for as long as you need it.
2. Qualifications
While all mental health therapists are trained, some hold more advanced degrees than others. Here are some questions you might ask:
- Do they have a master’s or doctoral degree?
- How long have they been practicing?
- Do they have specific training or certifications in your area of concern?
- Can they prescribe medication?
Qualifications may matter more if you’re looking for support with something like a personality disorder, often considered one of the hardest mental health conditions to live with. If you think you might need medication, consider looking for a psychiatrist or a therapist who can refer you to one.
3. Speciality Areas
Look for a therapist who has experience treating your specific concerns, such as:
- Substance use disorders and addiction
- Relationship issues
- LGBTQ+ exploration and identity
- Stress or life changes
- Trauma
- OCD
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
Many therapists list their specialties on their website, but you can also call to ask.
4. Types of Therapies Offered
Some therapists use one main type of therapy, while others combine multiple methods. Depending on what you’re struggling with, you might be interested in:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe your negative thoughts into more positive ones.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to process trauma and treat the symptoms of PTSD
- Exposure therapy to address phobias associated with OCD
- Couples therapy to work through problems alongside your significant other
There are many different types of therapy, so don’t be afraid to explore your options to find the best treatment for you.
5. Availability
To get the most out of therapy, you need to find someone whose schedule works with yours. Consider whether they:
- Offer evening or weekend sessions
- Provide the option of telehealth or online therapy
- Can meet with you weekly, bi-weekly, or more often as needed
Consistency is key to building trust with your therapist and making progress.
6. Timeline
Some therapists offer short-term support, while others take a long-term approach, gauging progress along the way and adjusting the plan accordingly. Ask yourself how long you think you’ll need therapy and consider whether that timeline aligns with your therapist’s.
Where to Search for a Therapist Near You
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to start your search.You can check with your insurance provider, ask your doctor for a referral, or get recommendations from friends or family members. If you need help with something specific, try searching through organizations that focus on your concern, such as:
- The National Alliance for Eating Disorders
- The Anxiety and Depression Association of America
- The National Center for PTSD
Your workplace may also offer resources for mental health support. Many employers will give you access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which can connect you with short-term counseling, assessments, or referrals at no cost.
How to Tell if a Therapist Is a Good Fit
It can be challenging to form your opinion of someone from a one-hour session, so you may need a few sessions to decide. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you evaluate the fit:
- Does this person listen without judgment?
- Do I feel heard and respected during sessions?
- Are my boundaries respected with this individual?
- Can I be honest during sessions?
- Do I feel more hopeful about my concerns after sessions?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you’re probably on the right track.
What You Need to Know About Switching Therapists
While finding a therapist on your first try is possible, it isn’t a guarantee. Although it can be difficult to switch to someone new, it’s important to do what’s best for you. After all, therapy is all about your preferences, needs, and comfort level. If something feels off, trust your gut. Feeling unsafe, judged, misunderstood, or unsupported are all valid reasons for switching.
Finding Mental Health Support at Renewed Light
Deciding to go to therapy is a brave step, but it’s worth taking some time to choose the right mental health therapist for you. At Renewed Light, we know how personal this process is. Whether you’re brand new to therapy and looking at your options or searching for a better fit, we’re here to take each step with you until you find the support you deserve. Reach out today so that we can help you start feeling like yourself again.
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