How To Choose a Mental Health Provider
“What if I make the wrong choice?"
Life is a series of choices, each with its own set of consequences. From the moment we wake up in the morning to the time we go to bed at night, we are faced with decisions - big and small, trivial and significant. Some decisions may seem straightforward, while others may weigh heavily on our minds, causing us to deliberate endlessly.
It's completely normal to have concerns about finding the “right” provider. The worry about investing time and resources in someone who may not be the best fit can be stressful. However, remember that this is a journey towards better mental health, and it's okay to take steps even if they don't always lead to the perfect outcome.
Every mental health provider brings unique qualifications, approaches, and areas of expertise to the table. There is not a universally “right” or “wrong” choice when it comes to selecting a provider. Instead, it is about finding the best possible fit based on your unique needs, preferences, and goals.
As you navigate your decision-making process, it’s important to consider a range of factors that can contribute to finding the best match for you.
Quality Matters
The field of mental health encompasses various specialties, each with its unique requirements, as detailed in Credentials & Licensure. Within each field, a spectrum of quality exists among providers.
To ensure you receive high-quality care, consider the following:
Did the provider undergo comprehensive training or a brief certification course?
Have they received supervision during their practice?
Do they engage in ongoing training?
Verify their credentials on licensing board websites.
In a physical office setting, providers typically display their credentials. If you're working with an online therapist, you can request to see their license information via your preferred communication method.
Here are some associations that offer links to license information for specific behavioral science fields:
Psychology - Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB)
Social work - Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)
Professional counseling - American Counseling Association (ACA)
Substance use counseling - Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC)
Marriage and family therapy - Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB)
Psychiatry - Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB)
The Right Fit
In addition to quality, it's vital to find a mental health provider who is a good fit for your unique needs. Consider the following factors:
Specialization: Seek a provider who specializes in the type of support you require, whether it's a specific therapy or a particular condition. For instance, if you're dealing with anxiety, consider a therapist specializing in anxiety disorders. If you're addressing trauma, an EMDR specialist may be suitable.
Diversity and Demographics: You may feel more comfortable with a provider who shares your gender or race. If you work in a specific profession (e.g., law enforcement, first responders, medical, or military), you might consider a provider with experience in that area.
Meeting Setting: Decide if you prefer in-person or online sessions. In-person meetings offer a personal touch and avoid potential technical issues, but they require consideration of commuting and provider availability. Online therapy allows for convenience and is ideal if you have mobility or transportation challenges.
Most therapists or counselors will request to schedule a free initial phone consultation to chat and see if you feel you are a good fit. Sample questions for this phone call might include:
What insurance plans do they accept? If they don't take insurance, do they offer a sliding scale or discounts? (Check their website first.)
What should you expect in the first session, such as assessments or treatment plans?
Tell them briefly about your situation. Can they address your specific challenges?
What are their credentials, licenses, and any specialized training they possess?
What factors might cause them to hesitate and reconsider pursuing your therapeutic approach with me?
Do they lean on a specific approach?
In the process of finding the right therapist, each step you take brings you closer to the support you need. It will require ongoing reflection, communication, and collaboration between you and the provider to ensure that the therapeutic process remains beneficial and supportive.
Keep moving forward, and know that your well-being is worth the effort.
Download Your Free How-To Guide to Navigate Mental Health Care
For our comprehensive guide to navigating mental health care, we invite you to download our How-To Guide to Navigate Mental Health Care. This guide, written by a diverse group of individuals including first responders, licensed professional counselors, and those who have personally been affected by mental illness, offers valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the complexities of mental health care effectively. Click here to access your copy and empower yourself on your mental health journey.
