How to Choose a Therapist in Texas

For many people, making the decision to start therapy can be difficult. Reaching out for help can feel vulnerable–but it’s worth it. You deserve support navigating whatever challenges you’re dealing with.

As part of the therapy process, you’ll need to choose which mental health provider to work with. While there is no right or wrong way to make this decision, using these tips can help make the choice a bit easier.

Let’s dive in.

What to look for in a therapist

Choosing a therapist is a highly personal decision. No one else can tell you which therapist is right for you. With that being said, there are some factors to consider when making your choice. Here are just a few.

Location

When choosing a therapist, you’ll want to make sure to check their location. If you’re planning to attend in-person counseling sessions, ensure that their office is easily accessible for you. For example, if you’ll be headed to therapy straight from work, look for a therapist whose office is close to your workplace.

On the other hand, you may want to consider working with an online therapist in Texas. This may be more convenient because you can access sessions from the comfort of your own home. However, you’ll still need to make sure that the therapist is licensed in the state of Texas.

Cost

Part of choosing a therapist is making sure that you can afford sessions. While your mental health is an important investment, financial barriers can make it difficult for people to afford the care they need.

When deciding which therapist to work with, think about whether or not you plan to use your insurance coverage. Some therapists work directly with insurance providers. Others might give you paperwork to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Still others may be entirely private pay. There are pros and cons to all forms of payment, so think carefully about what will work best for you.

Background and education

You’ll want to make sure that your therapist has proper credentials. When searching for a therapist, you can ask for information about their background and training.

There are different types of therapists, but in general, all need to meet rigorous standards. In order to become a licensed therapist, people must meet certain education requirements, complete thousands of hours of supervised practice, pass an exam, and adhere to ethical requirements.

Specialty

Aside from the general training requirements that all therapists need to meet, you should also check to make sure that your therapist has experience working with people like you. For example, if you experience anxiety, make sure that your therapist knows how to treat anxiety.

You can also ask about the specific methods your therapist uses. At the same time, don’t worry if you’re not exactly sure which treatment methods to look for. Your therapist will work with you to make a plan that’s suited to your needs.

Therapeutic relationship

When looking for a therapist in Texas, it’s important to think about all the logistical considerations. However, don’t overlook the connection you feel with your therapist. The therapeutic relationship forms the foundation of the work you’ll do in counseling, so you should feel comfortable with whichever therapist you choose.

Building a strong connection with your counselor can take time. It’s okay if you need a few sessions to get a feel for whether you might be a good fit for each other. With that being said, it’s also okay to try different therapists before finding one you really like. Finding a good therapist can be hard, but it’s worth it for your mental health in the long run.