How to Hire a High Quality Therapist in NYC

If you’re considering therapy, you’re taking an important step toward improving your mental health and well-being. At the same time, it can feel daunting to find the right therapist for you–especially when there are so many therapists in NYC.

Even though you might feel overwhelmed right now, know that it is possible to find a therapist who’s a good match for your needs, values, and goals. In this post, we’ll outline steps that can help you feel confident in hiring the best therapist in NYC for you.

1. Get clear on what you’re looking for

Before you start your search for a therapist, it’s important to have an idea of what you’re looking for. What are your goals for therapy? What issues do you want to address? What type of therapy might be most effective for you?

It’s okay if you don’t have an exact answer for each of these questions. However, getting as clear as you can about what you’re looking for can help you narrow down your search and find the right therapist.

2. Ask for recommendations

While there is no right or wrong way to hire a therapist, many people find one through a recommendation. If you feel comfortable discussing mental health with the people around you, you can ask friends, family, or colleagues if they’ve had a positive experience with a therapist.

Beyond getting a recommendation from the people in your personal life, you can also turn to the professionals you’re connected with. Many primary care providers can offer referrals to therapists in your area.

3. Use online directories

Other people find therapists through online directories. Psychology Today, GoodTherapy, and TherapyDen are just a few popular directors that can connect you with a mental health professional.

These directories allow you to search for therapists by location, specialty, payment method, and more. They also provide information about each therapist’s education, experience, and treatment approach.

4. Check credentials

When looking for a therapist, it’s important to make sure they are licensed and qualified to practice in your state. Their credentials will be listed on their directory profile or website, but you can also verify them on the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions website.

This website allows you to search for a therapist by name, license type, or location. You can also check if a therapist has any disciplinary actions or complaints against them.

5. Consider the therapist’s approach

Different therapists use different approaches to therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). Finding a therapist whose approach aligns with your needs and goals can help you get the most out of therapy.

While you might have considered this during your initial reflection, it’s important to do a little extra research about which approach might work best for you. You can read about their approach on their website or directory, and use a professional website (such as the American Psychological Association site) to learn more about each method they use.

6. Schedule a consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential therapists, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation. Many therapists offer a free initial consultation, which can give you a chance to talk with them and ask questions about their approach to therapy, their experience, and their availability. If you're looking for free consultations in NYC, take a look at NYC Therapeutic Wellness.

During a consultation, you can also get a better sense of whether you feel comfortable with the therapist and whether they might be a good fit for you. After you’ve consulted with each prospective therapist, you can move on to scheduling your first appointment.

Hopefully, these tips will help you feel confident in hiring the best therapist in NYC for your needs and goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the help you need.