How to Choose the Best Therapist

According to recent studies, the number of people suffering from mental issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, and even anger is on an all-time high. The good thing though is that the aspect of therapy is being embraced by many people as a way of overcoming their mental problems. In the recent past, mental health was a topic that was rarely discussed due to the stigma associated with it, but with the increased awareness regarding the same, many people are gradually opening up about their mental issues. The services of a highly qualified and reputable therapist may be required if you or your loved one is going through a tough time due to mental health issues. Finding the right therapist may, however, be a challenge considering that there are many types of therapists in the industry. To find a therapist that is most favorable for you, you should look into some aspects as will be highlighted here.

One crucial aspect you should look into when selecting a therapist is his or her industry experience. Some mental health issues such as OCD, addiction, postnatal depression, eating disorders, sexual abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorders are quite complex and require significant industry experience, hence the need to seek the services of a therapist that is experienced in dealing with your mental issues. A therapist that has industry experience will guarantee you exceptional services as he or she has an insight on what to expect, what works and what to avoid, and is unlikely to get caught up in a treatment fad. You should, therefore, ask for the credentials and portfolio of your preferred therapist to establish whether he or she has met the required standards, and also his or her track record.

When looking for a therapist, you should also consider the aspect of theoretical orientation. A school of thought that informs how a therapist makes sense of the issues you bring, his or her approach to the matter, what to aim for, also how long the therapy is expected to last is known as theoretical orientation. You should consider seeking the services of a psychodynamic therapist in case your behavioral changes is as a result of unconscious motivation, or opt for a cognitive therapist if you believe that changing your thoughts will have a positive impact on your life.

When looking for a therapist, you should also consider getting recommendations from friends and family. Friends and family tend to offer unbiased opinions, meaning that seeking recommendations on the best therapists within your local area will be your best option. You should also consider the reputation of your preferred therapist before settling on his or her services.
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