Identity

Do you find yourself feeling more comfortable talking to a male vs. a female? Is it important that your therapist is of a specific ethnic or cultural background? You may have a preference on the identity of your therapist, which can be helpful in narrowing down your options when initiating your search. It is important to note, however, that someone of a shared identity does not necessarily equate to greater therapeutic effectiveness or a complete lack of bias. Having a candid conversation about assumptions and potential biases you may have about each other can be the start of an important relationship. This dialogue can be helpful in determining if that therapist is the right fit for you.

Theoretical Orientation

Explore what theoretical orientation and educational background the therapist has - feel free to ask them to explain how they address specific presenting issues or what their experience is with the issue you would like to discuss.

Rapport

I consider the relationship between you and your therapist as an integral part of the therapy process. Make sure you feel comfortable with your therapist and if you don’t, talk to them about it. See how they respond and how that feels for you. Also, feel free to ask them anything - you are worried about what they think of you, you had a dream with them in it, you didn’t like what they said the previous session. Like other relationships, the one with your therapist may take some work and that’s ok.

Share Any Concerns

The therapist/client relationship is a relationship that may take work. If there are concerns, share how you feel and see how they respond!

Budget/Cost

Affordability was the top reason people avoid mental health services, according to a survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. But here is the truth - therapy does not have to be be expensive to work and if it is out of your budget, there are options to fit it into your life.

Some mental health professionals accept insurance, while others do not. If a therapist is not in-network with your insurance plan, you can ask if they accept a sliding scale payment system (i.e. modified rates based on your income or a mutually agreed upon amount).

If your therapist is in-network, you can talk to them about your copay responsibility based on your insurance plan or call your insurance company directly to explore how much of the session they cover. 

Therapy may be a cost you are not accustomed to including in your lifestyle but this does not mean it should be one you avoid completely - it can be an important investment so please do discuss your options and feelings about it with the provider you choose.

A Note From Dr. K: