Finding the Right Provider
What are factors I should consider when finding the right provider?
While there is no one best way to find the right provider, it can be helpful to consider various factors as you weigh your choices. See below for four categories that each cover several considerations that people tend to find important when looking for a provider.
What to consider?
Practical Considerations:
The first consideration that comes to mind for many is cost. If you have insurance, it is possible that your care is fully covered (with providers who take your insurance). It may also be the case that you need to meet a deductible before services are covered. For example, you may need to spend a certain amount out-of-pocket before your insurance begins covering services. Looking at your coverage or calling your insurance company can be helpful first steps to get a sense of whether and how insurance might cover your care, if you do not want to pay out of pocket.
Notably, not all providers accept insurance and, as a result, may require you to pay out of pocket for services. Some providers and clinics offer a sliding-scale fee structure. This means that you will pay for services based on your income level.
You may also want to consider the logistics of how and when you will meet with your provider. Providers may offer services in-person or by virtual appointment. Some providers may have evening or weekend availability, while others may only be available during weekdays.
Finally, keep in mind that providers often have a waitlist. If you are hoping to begin treatment quickly, it may be helpful to contact several providers at the same time.
Expertise
Providers may specialize in working with particular concerns (like depression or trauma) and with certain age groups (children or adults). To learn about different types of providers, check out this NAMI fact sheet.
Providers also differ in the therapeutic approaches, or modalities, they use. A modality is a framework or style for delivering therapy. Different modalities may be more helpful for certain concerns or treatment goals. Some of these modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Fit & Connection
Research has shown that the therapeutic alliance, or the relationship you have with your therapist, is one of the strongest predictors of successful outcomes in therapy. You deserve to feel heard, respected, and understood when you meet with a provider.
Some questions you may wish to ask yourself as you meet with your provider are:
Am I comfortable speaking with this person?
Does this provider’s communication style work well for me?
Do we agree on my goals for therapy?
Keep in mind that it may take more than one session to answer these questions.
Identity & Preferences
Many people have preferences regarding their provider’s background, identity, or lived experience. For instance, you may wish to find a therapist who shares your gender identity, cultural background, language, or other aspects of your experience. This shared background may help make you more comfortable, especially as you are first starting to work with a provider.
The bottom line on finding the right provider
The first step is contacting a provider for a consult appointment. These appointments are around 15 minutes in length and are usually conducted by phone. Usually, your prospective provider will want to know more about why you are seeking services during this call. It is also a good time to get your questions answered, too. Consider the factors we reviewed above and make a list of what is most important to you, and make sure to ask your potential provider any questions during your consult appointment.
Above all, remember that it may take time to find a provider you work well with. Finding the right provider is a personal decision, and it is okay if the first provider you meet with ultimately does not meet your needs.
Author: Claire Emilia Punturieri
Reviewed by: Aggie Laboe