A New Journey: 5 Steps to Finding The Right Therapist for You

 
 

The portrayal of contemporary therapy practices often pushes many individuals away from pursuing, or even entertaining, the thought of therapy as a whole. This can be due to many factors, including poor experiences in the past, stigmas that frequently surround treatment, and fear! Despite the reason for feeling any apprehension in seeking out counseling, the bravery and acknowledgment of your needs is not only the first step but should be commended more often. For that reason, giving yourself grace through this new journey is essential.

Whether this is your first time seeking out therapy or you're just looking for a new counselor, this process can be fairly simple with the proper steps as follows:

  1. Consultation and Payment. It’s key to have an idea of how you’re going to pay for a sessions prior to attending one. Individuals considering private pay are also entitled to several benefits that insurance does not offer, such as, reimbursement, flexibility of payments, as well nondisclosure of a diagnosis to an insurance provider.

    If you're planning to pay through insurance, it's crucial to be aware of what your insurance will and will not cover for you. Verify your out-of-pocket and co-pay amounts with your insurance company to make sure you are covered. Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy accepts Aetna, Anthem BCBS, UHC, Cigna, and UHC Student Resources. We also accept all PPO insurance plans as out-of-network providers. 

  2. Explore your Resources. Therapy takes form in many mediums. It recognizes people from all occupations and backgrounds, so it's vital to research all of your options. For example, students are usually eligible for discounted therapy through their university. Many therapists are also willing to meet a client halfway through the offering of sliding scales fees, which is dependent on an individual’s monthly income. Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy offers a sliding scale to students.

  3. Finding the Right Match. To make sure you're seeking out the proper care, be sure to research the right therapist that meets your exact needs. Some counselors may specialize in only a particular form of care or may only see a specific type of client based on their age, gender, relationship status, etc. Here are a few links that might help you on your search:

    • Psychology Today Psychology Today is a media organization with a focus on psychology and human behavior. The Psychology Today website features therapy and health professionals directories and hundreds of mental health blogs.

    • Therapy for Black Girls Therapy for Black Girls is an online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls.

    • Therapy Den A progressive and all-inclusive therapist directory working with allies and partners to make meaningful change within the mental health industry and society as a whole.

    • Therapy Tribe The purpose is to help people find great mental health resources like therapists, support groups, wellness tools as well as an overall sense of community.

  4. Transparency. Sometimes, we may find ourselves being unhappy with the provider we're with, and that's okay. As an individual, you're human, and at some point we are all going find ourselves in situations that may not be ideal. However, it is essential to be very honest with yourself and your therapist to transition over to someone who better suits your needs. At the end of the day, your mental health comes first, and finding the best care is the top priority.

  5. Virtual Therapy. Do you have a busy schedule? Are you not comfortable seeing your therapist in person? That's alright! Virtual platforms and apps are dedicated solely to issues like these that arise. Despite your agenda for the day or what others may say about online therapy, it's just as valid and effective as in-person therapy. Here are a few places that might aid you in your search:

    • Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy offers flexible Telehealth appointments to aid in your mental health concerns and assist you on your journey towards a more fulfilling life. Whatever your goals might be, our therapists are here to be of support every step of the way.

    • Psychology Today is another resource to find the right fit for your mental health needs. Psychology Today provide a plethora of providers that willing to adhere to said guidelines and your schedule.

Whether you're coping with trauma, relationship troubles, grief, or just everyday struggles, wanting assistance and treatment for said concerns is more than valid and the best course of action. Joie de Vivre Counseling and Therapy is ready when you are. Determine how your goals align with your therapist's choice to decide the best course of action. Soon, you'll be well on your way towards better mental health.

~Eryka Warren

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