When seeking counseling, it can be overwhelming to find the right counselor. How do you even begin? Do you search on Google? Were you referred by a Physician? A friend? There are plenty of ways to look up counselors, and get information on them, but how do you truly know they are going to be the right fit for you?
The answer is, you don’t. With any type of appointment, whether it’s with a physician or hair dresser, you aren’t really going to know how you’re going to feel about the person until you meet them. Obviously if you’ve been referred, or were able to read reviews online you will have a better idea before you go in for your first appointment.
We suggest doing your research. Ask your friends, colleagues or even your Primary Care Physician. A good way to start is to call some of the offices and ask the person who answers the phone if they can give more information about their counselors.
There are many things to consider when searching for the right counselor. Where are they located? Do they take insurance, or is it private pay? What are their hours? What experience do they have on the topic you are seeking counseling for? Are they licensed or have certifications? Once you find out the answers to all your questions it’s time to book your first appointment. From there, it’s about your individual feeling with the counselor and what their short/long term therapy goal is for you.
Sometimes going to the first appointment ends in you realizing that this person might not be the best fit for you. And that’s okay! You don’t have to stick to a counselor just because you’ve already had one appointment with them. You have decided to seek counseling for yourself, and that’s a big step. The right fit is important. You want to receive the best care possible so that you get what you want and what you deserve as a client.
What happens after your first appointment? Usually you and your counselor will discuss what the best course of action is. The counselor will most likely discuss what the treatment goal is, and what the process will be to get to that goal. They will suggest how often they believe you should come in for sessions, and what the next step in the process might be.
There are many reasons why people might seek counseling in their life time. Perhaps a loved one just passed away, and they are experiencing symptoms from grief and loss. A person dealing with anxiety and depression might need a counselor. Couples who are married, divorced or co-parenting can benefit from seeing a counselor. There are so many reasons why it is a good step forward to seek help, and many people find great success in talking to a counselor. Whatever the reason or reasons you might feel like counseling is the right thing for you, Biltmore Psychology and Counseling is always here to help. There is also a great article with more information about finding the right fit at American Psychological Association
