Mended with Gold Counseling

How to Choose a Therapist

Gather information from people you trust. 

Ask your insurance plan for a referral. Sometimes clinics, hospitals, employers, and schools can offer referrals.

Search web sites. When reviewing a web site, note the treatment approaches offered. Check for a license; a license indicates the counselor has participated in working under the supervision and review of an experienced therapist, and passed a licensing exam. Licensed therapists need to complete continuing education hours in order to remain licensed.

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Look for a phone number and call to gain more information. Many therapists offer free telephone consultation to help you learn more. My phone number for a free 20 minute consultation is 503-572-5271.

It takes courage to make that first phone call. When you do call, it's helpful to keep in mind the following:

What is your own reaction to the therapist? After the call, do you feel encouraged, hopeful, respected?

Do you feel as if your concerns were the focus of the conversation?

Do you understand how the therapist might be able to assist you?

Be aware if a therapist promises guarantees, or indicates to you a certain number or frequency of sessions is required. Counseling is a collaboration between you and your therapist.

The number and frequency of sessions is determined ultimately by you, with feedback from your therapist. My goal with each session is to offer you at least one coping tool or strategy that you can try after each session.

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A solid therapist  encourages:

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• Confidence in yourself

• Hope

• Independence, rather than dependence on counseling

• Skills development

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A motivated counselor seeks peer consultation. This broadens a therapist's perspective and can facilitate new perspectives on how to help you.  This process honors the confidentiality of the client/therapist relationship.

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Additionally, a conscientious therapist has engaged in their own therapy work. This helps a therapist maintain a clear focus on your goals and progress. My personal experience includes some of the concerns my clients bring in to therapy. Over the years I have enlisted the help of therapy to develop insight into my own life. I have experienced healing through therapy. And while I wouldn't use this experience to proclaim I know how to solve everyone's concerns, engaging in my own therapy has given me a lot of respect and empathy for people who choose to engage in counseling.

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