Choosing a Therapist

Deciding to reach out for support is a big decision that can be overwhelming for most. Choosing a therapist is one of the many daunting tasks when it comes to starting or resuming therapy. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when looking for support:

Right Fit 

Research has shown that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors that contribute to a successful outcome. Therefore, the right fit is extremely important when looking for a therapist. Majority of mental health professionals offer a brief 10-15 minute free consultation call, which allows you to ask any questions, discuss what you are looking for in terms of support, and provide the opportunity to see if it is a good fit on both ends. Take advantage of this option, shop around and always schedule a few calls with different therapists before choosing the one for you!        

Credentials 

There are many different credentials associated with mental health professionals. This can be confusing and overwhelming when it comes to choosing a therapist. Depending on what supports you are looking for will depend on what credentials are right for you! Here is a brief overview of some of the credentials in Ontario and how they can help best support you depending on your needs:

• Psychiatrists: medical doctors who can prescribe/monitor medication and provide assessments and diagnosis 

• Psychologists: provide assessments and diagnosis as well as implement a variety of treatments or psychotherapies 

• Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists: provide therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families, while implementing a wide variety of evidence-based modalities and psychotherapies  

Format

There are a few different forms of therapy: in-person, virtual, telephone, or text/chat. Most private practices offer primarily in-person, virtual, or telephone. However, there are some organizations that provide text/chat support. It is important to determine which form of therapy would be most beneficial for you and ensure the therapist offers that format.   

Modalities and Areas of Expertise

Depending on your needs, goals in therapy, and what you are looking for out of the process, it can be helpful to explore what modalities and approaches the therapist implements in their practice. It is also important to find out the therapist's areas of expertise to ensure they are able to support you with your specific needs. Therapy isn’t a one size fits all and different modalities work for different individuals.

Fees and Insurance

When looking for support, determining the therapist fees align with your budget is also important. If you have extended health care benefits, ensure to check how much coverage you have along with what credentials your insurance company covers.   

If you are looking for support and not sure where to start, feel free to reach out to one of our therapists to schedule a brief call and see if the fit is right for you!