Finding a good therapist can be difficult. It would be best if you chose someone who will meet your needs and who has experience working with clients in similar situations.

Ask Yourself Some Questions Before You Start Looking For A Therapist.

If you’re looking for a therapist, ask these questions before looking online.

1) Do I feel comfortable talking to my potential therapist?
2) Does my potential therapist seem qualified?
3) Is there anything else I should consider before choosing a therapist?

The first step in finding a Downingtown therapist is deciding whether you want one. It is possible that you might benefit from a coach, mentor, or even a licensed therapist under the umbrella of coaching. Therapists have limitations; coaches do not. At the same time, therapists are regulated, while coaches are not. A licensed therapist who is also a coach will have regulations and greater freedom.

Maybe you don’t want a therapist. Perhaps you want a life coach, a business coach, a mentor, or a support group.

I am a fan of support groups. In Downingtown, there are a few in-person and some online support groups. (I hold an online trauma and stress support group incorporating a Zen Buddhist philosophy.)

There’s nothing wrong with seeking help from a professional if you think you might benefit from therapy. Still, it would be best if you didn’t choose a therapist based solely on what seems convenient or outdated models where traditional therapy was the only way to seek support.

If you’re looking for a Downingtown therapist, ask yourself some questions before searching online.

• Do you know why you want to see a therapist? Believe it or not, many struggling people are confused; if that is the case, let the therapist know that you are generally unhappy, and they can start from that point. Maybe you can benefit more from a hypnotherapist or support group.

• What kind of issues would you like to work on? Often, I see people who say that their relationship is the core struggle, only to find out that it is a more profound trauma or childhood wound. Be open to exploring different facets of yourself.

• Are there certain things you’d like to change about yourself? How much time do you have available to devote to therapy? This is so important. Sometimes there is this idea that only a handful of sessions is enough. I get it; it is hard to work on yourself. The first few sessions are more intake-focused, so you will need time. Hypnotherapy is about creating lasting change and enriching your life; that is another option- and yes, I am a hypnotherapist.

• Is seeing a therapist something you’re interested in doing? Therapy is work. It isn’t just someone shaking their head and affirming you. Are you interested in diving in to release suffering? If so, then reach out to a Downingtown therapist- maybe me, if I sound like I align with your beliefs and goals.

These are all questions you should consider before looking for a therapist.

The first step towards finding a therapist is deciding what type of help you need. There are many different types of therapists, each specializing in various areas of mental health. Psychologists focus on the mind and behavior, while psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. Some mental health professionals diagnose and treat with medication (I do not do either), and others take a more holistic or spiritual approach (that is my focus). Some are very conservative, while others might drop some colorful language occasionally. Other types of therapists include counselors, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and life coaches who also provide similar services.
Suppose you’re looking for a therapist specializing in anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, or other mental health issues. In that case, you should consider asking yourself questions before looking for one.

• Do you feel anxious?
• Are you having trouble sleeping?
• Do you struggle with self-esteem?

These are signs that you might be suffering deeply, which means you could benefit from therapy.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Friends And Family About Their Experience With Therapy.

You might think asking friends and family members about their experiences with therapy would be awkward, but it’s an excellent way to learn more about what works and what doesn’t work for them.

Remember that everyone is different; you might not like a recommended therapist because your struggle might not be their specialty, they might trigger you, or you might not desire the same type of style.

You might be surprised by what you learn. For example, one woman told me she had a friend who had been seeing a therapist for years. Then, therapy became deeper. She said her friend’s therapist was beneficial, but then she stopped taking his calls. When asked why her friend said she didn’t want to talk about her childhood because she felt ashamed.

The woman said she thought that was strange since she knew her friend well enough to know that she didn’t seem ashamed of anything. You never know.

Ask friends and family members for recommendations if you’re looking for a therapist. If you’ve got a good relationship with them, they’ll tell you and might even be a bit vulnerable with you so that you can make an informed decision.

Contact The Therapist’s Office Directly.

You should contact the Downingtown Therapy office of your choice directly if you’re looking for a therapist specializing in anxiety disorders. They will likely ask you questions about your symptoms, concerns, and other relevant details.

When you call the office, you’ll be asked if you want to speak with a therapist or a counselor. If they only put you on with an intern, trainee, or front desk, that’s not enough.

Most therapists have a niche or specialization. For example, some therapists focus on issues related to depression, while others work with clients dealing with eating disorders.

If you’re looking for a therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, you should consider contacting me. I offer individual therapy sessions, support groups, family and couples work, and corporate programs. I also provide services for children, adolescents, and adults.

Contact me at Michele@Michelepaiva.com or see if we are a fit, and fill out the form HERE.