Finding the right mental health care provider can take time. Not only are you looking for a therapist that you feel comfortable with and who takes your insurance, but their practice also needs to be accepting new patients too. It can be challenging to deal with all of this, but there are some steps that you can take to help.
Here are five tips to help you out while you search.
1- Explore Other Mental Health Service Options
Private practices aren’t the only place where you’ll find therapists. Work, schools, places of worship, and even smartphone apps offer various types of counseling and therapy services. If you’re open to virtual therapy sessions, looking for an online therapist may expedite your search.
It’s important to note that no matter where you look, you should make sure to find a professional who is trained in counseling and/or therapy.
2- Practice Relaxation Techniques For Stress and Anxiety
Part of what a therapist will do in your sessions is equip you with tools that’ll allow you to manage stress and anxiety in your day-to-day life. Look for reputable online resources that describe how to use various breathing and relaxation techniques that you can use when facing stressful situations. You could also try asking a trusted friend what they do when they find themselves in need of calming measures.
3- Start Journaling
Try spending a few minutes every day writing down your thoughts. Journaling can help you track your mood and situational triggers, so when you do connect with a therapist, you’ll have some reference points from which to start a dialogue. It doesn’t have to be fully thought out either; a stream of consciousness can be just as effective. Part of the practice is taking the time to sit for a few moments and let your thoughts out onto a page so that you don’t have to keep them in your head anymore.
4- Up Your Self-Care Game
If you don’t already have a self-care routine, now’s a good time to develop one. Self-care can include anything from hot baths to nature walks, listening to your favorite music, or going for a massage. And because caring for your mental health includes adequate sleep, try incorporating a few bedtime rituals to help you wind down for quality sleep. You don’t have to spend big bucks on self-care either; getting outside, reading a book, or having a piece of candy are all acceptable forms of self-care.
5- Prepare For Therapy
Now is also a good time to consider what you’re hoping to gain from your therapy sessions. Having goals for your therapy sessions can help both you and your mental health care provider guide the conversations. Also, take some time to think about what might be important for you in a therapist. Would you feel more comfortable seeing someone of the same gender, background, religion, etc..? For some people, that might be really important, and for others, it might not.
At Arbor Associates, we take a great deal of pride in helping people find rewarding positions and hope to bring positivity to our associates. If you’re interested in finding a health care or education position that fits your work schedule or lifestyle, reach out to one of our recruiters today!