Choosing a Counselor / Therapist
Please note that at times the words counselor and therapist are used in the same sense, identifying some one who works as a mental health practitioner. Licensed means a person who has passed a specific licensing exam given by an approved professional and/or state licensing agency.
There are different types of qualifications for counselors/therapists. Some identify themselves in the general category of counselor/therapist and others state their specialties and/or certifications. On the internet there are several therapist finders where you can look for specific areas of qualifications and expertise.
In our Satir Registry we have counselors/therapists who have self identified as using the Satir Growth Model/Process as part of their practice. As you will see, each registrant states their qualifications and areas of expertise as well as other information about their practice.
As difficult as it is, it is really up to you to decide who is the right counselor/therapist for you. Here are some suggestions that may be helpful in your selection process:
You may want to have some one you trust to help you with this process. This is an important step you are taking and it is okay to have some one you trust help you.
Interview the registrant by email or phone. And you may want to interview more than one person. Do not feel bad about this, you deserve and need to find someone that is going to work with you, in the way that fits for you.
Some of the what you might want to share or ask of the registrant:
Tell her/him what you are looking for, your hopes and expectations, that is, what you want from the therapy
Check out the cost, the insurance they accept, and other financial questions and concerns you may have. Check with your insurance carrier. Remember too that some clinics or therapists have sliding scales.
Ask about information that is important to you, even if it is in their resume, but especially if you do not see it in the resume. Some of these issues, to name a few, could be the cultural and or spiritual values of the therapist.
Ask questions throughout the treatment process. You have the right to check any concerns you may have at any time.
We realize that at times of crisis it may be hard to make a decision like this, that is why we believe it can be helpful to have some one you trust to support you..
© 2005 Avanta, The Virginia Satir Network. All rights reserved.