4 Tips to Choose the Right Therapist

Mental health problems are becoming increasingly common. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans live with a mental disorder. A mental illness can wreak havoc on physical and mental health. It can affect one’s mood, behavior, and thought patterns. Many people use drugs or alcohol to cope with their mental health problems. While drugs can provide temporary relief, they often have a devastating effect on the body and mind.

If you are struggling with a mental disorder, give therapy a try. The goal of therapy is to help people struggling with mental health conditions connected with their inner selves. In addition, mental health services help those struggling to understand why they act the way they do and learn skills and tools to better manage their condition in therapy.

Once you have decided to seek therapy, one of the most important things is finding the right therapist in Manhattan. Just because a friend or neighbor sees a particular therapist, you should not assume that they will be the right fit for you as well. When choosing a therapist, consider your mental health care needs and determine if the ones you are considering can meet them.

Cooper Mental Health Counseling is the leading therapy group in Manhattan. Our team of professionals works to help those struggling to achieve their mental wellness goals. Here are some tips that will help you find the right therapist.

Use a Reliable Online Database

Many health organizations maintain up-to-date databases of licensed therapists. Some popular online search tools include the American Psychological Association, the Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists, and the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

When using an online tool, type in your ZIP code to generate a list of local therapists. Check their qualifications. Look for a therapist with experience treating the mental health condition you are trying to cope with.

Ask Someone you Trust

Friends and family members who have undergone therapy can be great resources for finding a therapist. If a family member, friend, or colleague has just completed therapy, talk to them. Ask them the following questions to gauge their therapist’s skill level:

• Which therapy methods did your therapist use? Were they effective?
• Did the therapist communicate effectively?
• What steps did they take to win your trust and get you to open up to them?
• How did they treat you?
• Were your treatment goals met?

Get Referrals from Your Doctor and Insurer

Look through your provider’s network to find a therapist near you. Ask your insurer if your plan limits the number of sessions, you can attend annually. If your plan includes out-of-network coverage, find out what percentage of treatment cost your insurance company will bear. You can also ask your doctor to recommend therapists.

Check Therapists’ Credentials

Look for a licensed therapist. To obtain their license, a therapist should pass a licensing test and a background check and complete a certain number of supervised hours. Licensed therapists should commit to continuous learning and are expected to keep their skills and knowledge up to date.

Cooper Mental Health Counseling is a trusted counseling center in Manhattan. Our therapists have years of experience treating different mental disorders. To make an appointment with one, call (347) 244-7873.