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[ March/April 2003 ]

Seeking a Psychotherapist

by Skip Hrin

A therapist can act as a support. As the therapeutic process involves working intimately with difficulties in your life, it is of the utmost importance you feel comfortable.

Discussing personal issues with someone you know can be challenging. The prospect of meeting with a total stranger to do so can be downright scary. Because we seek therapy for deeply personal and often difficult reasons, it is important to find a therapist with whom you are comfortable, respect, and like.

Not all therapists are similar. They differ in training, theory, and personality. It may be helpful to remember that you are, after all, a consumer and if you are not comfortable with a therapist, it is necessary to shop around. Obtaining referrals for a therapist is a good place to start.
  • Friends and family may be able to recommend someone. You can also ask your physician or religious leader. If you are looking for a child therapist, school counselors can be a good source for referrals.
  • For help with specific issues, organizations on the Internet can assist you. The sites may provide local referrals with listings of experience in specific issues.
  • If you do not have access to these resources, the phone book provides a list of therapists and their specialties.

Remember, you hire your therapist. I recommend talking to more than one therapist before you choose. Your first meeting should be partially viewed as the therapist's job interview. The following areas of questioning are recommended and appropriate:
  • What are the therapist’s credentials? Education? Work experience?
  • Does the therapist have experience with the issue you wish to explore?
  • What is the fee and payment?
  • Does the therapist accept your insurance plan or Medicaid?
  • What is the therapist’s style and perspective of working with clients?
  • When and how often would you meet?

The background, education, and experience of a therapist are also important. Here’s a quick guide to understanding all those letters following a therapist’s name:
  • Psychologists have doctorates (PhD OR PsyD) in psychology. They are required to complete a higher level of supervised clinical work, perform psychological testing, and are licensed. They can also be more expensive.
  • MFCC, LCSW, LPC, or PA therapists have a Masters degree and have been licensed. The various certifications for becoming a licensed Master’s level therapist are demanding and rigorous. Many have areas of specialty.
  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD) who specialize in psychiatric medicine and sometimes provide therapy, too. Often, though, their main area of practice is addressing the physical components of psychological disorders.
  • Counselors, who do not need an advanced degree or licensure to call themselves such, sometimes present their therapy under a religious or spiritual umbrella. They can be extremely effective and competent in their work.

All licensed mental health professionals are obligated to adhere to a strict code of ethical guidelines under the watch of licensing boards, which operate to maintain the well being of the public. For instance, sexually inappropriate behavior is not tolerated, and levels of competency are determined.

Licensure is necessary for most insurance and Medicaid, however. Consider your needs before accepting non-licensed therapy, as there are no safeguards.

Having a good feeling about your therapist is more important than whether or not they have a masters or doctorate. Take your time interviewing your new therapist. Arriving prepared for your first therapy session is very helpful. The clearer the picture you have about how therapy can help you, the easier it will be to find the right person. Spend some time thinking about your situation and expectations. Here are some questions you might consider:

  • What is your goal with therapy?
  • What qualities would you like to see in your therapist?
  • Have you had previous experiences (positive or negative) with mental health professionals? What are they? How have they affected you?
  • Are there things a therapist might do that would prevent you from working constructively with him or her? Are there any unacceptable forms of treatment?

The therapist may have questions for you, too. They are intended to shape your treatment, so it is vital to answer as honestly as possible.
  • What brings you into therapy?
  • Do you have any specific concerns about beginning therapy?
  • What are you expecting to get out of therapy?

Lastly, here are some questions to consider following your initial meeting:
  • Is this a person you can come to trust given the time and opportunity?
  • Did the therapist put you at ease?
  • Did you feel this person genuinely cared about you?

It does not matter if you are seeking help for pervasive mental health issues, if you need help gaining clarity on a pressing situation, or are seeking a different perspective of life events, looking for a therapist is a constructive, positive step to take for yourself. A therapist can act as a supportive and caring professional to help you through whatever is going on in your life. As the therapeutic process involves working intimately with difficulties in your life, it is of the utmost importance you feel comfortable. When you do find a good fit in a therapist, and as your relationship progresses, continue to monitor that you are reaching your original goals and the therapist continues to meet your personal needs. Therapy can and should be a wonderful opportunity and experience.

Dr. Skip Hrin is a licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice in Anchorage. He has over 11 years experience working with children, adults, and families. He can be reached at 350-9603.