In recent years, the demand for mental health services has skyrocketed, particularly following the global pandemic that underscored the importance of mental well-being.
As the share of U.S. adults reporting moderate to severe anxiety rose from 6% in 2019 to 18% in 2022 according to the CDC, many families have found themselves searching for a therapist to support their loved ones.
This journey often begins with a frustrating search, as highlighted by one mother’s experience in finding therapy for her child. After countless calls to local providers and insurance companies, she finally connected with Tanya Hull, the clinical director of Family Therapeutics in Fairfax, who offered timely support and affordable services from a resident therapist.
The urgent mental health needs have never been clearer, especially among teenagers, with the latest CDC data revealing that 21% of teens report symptoms of anxiety and 17% showcase signs of depression.
In today’s world, there are more access points to mental health care than ever, largely thanks to telemedicine and therapy apps, yet the process of finding a suitable therapist can still feel overwhelming. A simple search on Psychology Today can yield over 1,000 therapists in just a few local areas.
The term “therapist” generally refers to outpatient mental health professionals who support clients with conditions like depression and anxiety, but it’s essential to clarify that therapists do not prescribe medication. For pharmaceutical assistance, one typically needs a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner.
If you feel that therapy could be beneficial for you or a family member, it’s wise to start with recommendations from trusted sources like friends or family.
Zack Goldman, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Solid Ground Psychotherapy in Clarendon, suggests asking for referrals from those who have had positive experiences. Additionally, primary care physicians, along with insurance websites and therapy practice portals, can serve as valuable starting points.
Once you have compiled a preliminary list of potential therapists, it’s crucial to evaluate their fit for your needs. Understanding the qualifications of therapists is a fundamental step. In Virginia, licenses such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and doctoral degrees (PhD or PsyD) illustrate the various paths to professional qualification.
However, Beach, an individual and couples therapist, emphasizes that the most important factors in finding the right therapist are their ability to connect, listen and understand you, rather than the specific acronyms that follow their names.
Most therapists pursue additional training in specific areas, enhancing their proficiency in varied modalities such as couples therapy, addiction counseling, or trauma-informed therapy. Therefore, reviewing their websites for training information can provide insight into their areas of expertise and engagement.
It’s essential to note that only PhD and PsyD clinicians can perform neuropsychological testing for conditions like ADHD and learning disabilities, which sometimes is needed for school accommodations.
When choosing a therapist, remember that they must be licensed in the state where you are physically located during your appointment. This means you may find flexibility when utilizing virtual services, especially if you travel frequently or have special circumstances.
However, the selection process doesn’t stop with licensure. Equally important are the specialties and treatment modalities therapists may offer. For instance, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focused on identifying and modifying negative thinking patterns, is a prevalent method for treating anxiety and depression.
Conversely, psychodynamic therapy dives into understanding how past experiences shape present behaviors and thought patterns, thereby fostering greater self-awareness. LoPresti, a psychologist, favors this method to help clients unravel life patterns.
A basic understanding of therapy modalities, while helpful, shouldn’t become overwhelming. Nealy, founder of the LGBT+ Counseling Collaborative, encourages a broader focus on the therapist’s experience with different populations as well as personal comfort rather than theoretical adherence.
Some therapists focus on specific populations like LGBTQ clients or children, which may foster a better connection due to shared experiences or backgrounds.
Virtual therapy gained tremendous traction during the pandemic, with a significant number of therapy sessions now being held online. This method has proven as effective as in-person meetings for a range of mental health issues, offering additional convenience and accessibility.
However, different scenarios may dictate whether virtual or in-person sessions work best. For skills-based work, virtual therapy might be adequate, but for deeper emotional work necessitating a strong therapeutic alliance, in-person sessions are often more beneficial.
Therapy costs can be steep, averaging around $250 for a one-hour session in areas like Arlington. Navigating insurance coverage can often complicate access to mental health services. While many insurances offer mental health coverage, availability, costs, and specific benefits can vary greatly across different plans.
Using in-network therapists, while often less expensive, can pose challenges due to limited availability. Insurers frequently influence the course of treatment, which some clients may find frustrating.
As alternatives, some may consider employer-provided Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer short-term counseling support or pre-licensed therapists who typically charge less.
When seeking therapy, it’s integral to find a therapist who feels like a suitable match. Many therapists offer brief phone or video consultations to discuss your needs and gauge compatibility before committing to an appointment.
Beach recommends exploring conversations with multiple providers to enhance your chances of finding the right fit.
The therapeutic relationship is often the cornerstone of success in therapy. This dynamic can sometimes be assessed in initial sessions, as clients determine if they feel comfortable and connected to their therapist.
If, after a few sessions, a therapeutic alliance feels off, it’s crucial to communicate honestly with the therapist. Open dialogue about discomfort is part of the therapeutic process, and a good therapist should welcome feedback and work collaboratively to adjust.
If you’ve had that conversation and still feel misaligned, it’s perfectly fine to move on. Most therapists will understand that not all matches work out and will be supportive of your decision.
The ideal therapist can serve as a partner in a person’s wellness journey, with some clients seeking ongoing support over years to navigate life’s ups and downs.
In addition to addressing specific issues, therapy can act as a vital part of overall wellness, providing a space for self-reflection and personal growth.
Ultimately, therapy is about finding a supportive alliance that helps you lead a more fulfilling life.
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