Therapist Shopping

Written by: Amber Dorsey, Psy.D

The Clinical Cookout, LLC

Ideally, you want your first appointment to be “perfect”, but remember your therapist is a person too. They are professionals and they do this a lot, but that doesn’t mean they don’t sometimes get nervous when meeting new clients. Think about it this way, first impressions are important, but not always deal breakers. Ask if they offer a free, brief consultation so you can feel out the vibe. Tune in to how you feel as you are meeting this person. Ask them about their professional background, how they handle difficult or uncomfortable conversations, and what approach they tend to use in their practice. If a consultation is not offered, no biggie! When you meet them for your intake appointment, you will have the opportunity to do the same.

We all have some level of mistrust in the system, however, there are providers who are passionate about their job and are in it for the right reasons. It is the therapist’s job to make you feel comfortable, to share knowledge, and to do their best to understand you. It is your job to give them a chance. Even if you don’t have a positive experience with one therapist, there are many others in the sea. One therapist does not represent the whole system, just as one person does not represent every other person the world. You got this!

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