Find the Perfect Therapist in Minutes: A Simple Guide with Emergency Hotline Numbers

You have finally decided to reach out and talk to someone, but where do you even begin? There is a lot to consider since you want someone that specializes in what you need, not too far away (or virtual), you can afford and basically someone you feel comfortable being vulnerable with. Instead of going straight to Google, which will give you a few options, here are some easy steps to find a therapist that’s a good fit in a matter of minutes.

Directory of Therapists:

PsychologyToday.com

This is a directory that most therapists are on. On their website, the search and filter tool will get you the best few options and then you can narrow it down from there. Use filters such as:

• Your Location: the zip code for in person, and by state for Telehealth. Therapists have to see people that are within the state they are licensed.

• Your Insurance: if you want to use insurance, be sure to include this, but if you are willing to pay out of pocket, you can exclude this to find the best fit. Not every therapist takes the same insurance.

• Your Concern: such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc. You will want a therapist that specializes in your need area. Be careful with therapists that check off EVERY concern they may not have the best knowledge in the area you are seeking out.

• Age: this is especially important with children or teens, as not every therapist sees all age ranges. Some focus on kids and some on adults.

Other categories are available to check off as well if they are important to you, such as faith or any other specific type of therapy that you are looking for.

From there, you should have a few good options to browse their profile, check out their website and read their blog to see if they may be a good fit for you. Narrow one down and schedule an appointment (either in person or virtually). If the therapist is booked or isn’t the right fit when you call or contact them, feel free to ask if they know of another therapist that may be a better fit for you. Therapists have their own list of other therapists that we refer to.

Online Therapy

COVID had changed the very fibers of so many industries and the mental health field is no different. Therapy is now accessible from anywhere and in many forms, including on your phone, via text, voice and video messaging at a convenient time for you. The directories above include virtual therapy search options but there are also large scale therapy sites that only offer virtual if you want to go that route.

Ask Around

A lot of my referrals come from my current or past clients. If someone had a good experience, then they would be happy to recommend, but if they had a negative experience, then they would pass. If you are comfortable, ask your friends or family if they can recommend a decent therapist. You could also ask members of the community, such as a school counselor or a pastor. Most have a few trusted therapists they refer to on hand.

Instant Help

If you or a loved one is need of help immediately the following are available (Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room if you feel unsafe or a loved one is unsafe):

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

  Phone: 988 (Call or Text)

  Website: 988lifeline.org

  Available 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress or facing a crisis.

  Crisis Text Line

  Text: HELLO to 741741

  Website: crisistextline.org

  Free, confidential support via text message anytime.

  National Domestic Violence Hotline

  Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or Text START to 88788

  Website: thehotline.org

  Provides support for individuals experiencing domestic abuse.

  Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline

  Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

  Website: samhsa.gov

  24/7 confidential help for substance use and mental health issues.

  National Sexual Assault Hotline

  Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

  Website: rainn.org

  Operated by RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).

  Veterans Crisis Line

  Phone: 988 and then press 1 (Call or Text)

  Website: veteranscrisisline.net

  Support for veterans and their loved ones.