Admitting to yourself that you need counseling is a big thing. There is still a significant stigma on mental health. Hence, when you are ready to find a Tustin counselor, you need to start by giving yourself a massive pat on the back. The next thing you have to do is make sure that you actually get the RIGHT counselor for your needs. The last thing you want is to take the plunge and not get the help you need, leaving you in a worse place than ever before. Below are the seven most important ways to help you find a good therapist.
- Word of Mouth
This is generally the best way to find one, but also the one that you may find the hardest. It means coming forward to people you know and letting them know you need to speak to a therapist, and you may worry that they will want to know why. Don’t be afraid of this, however. They are simply expressing concern and you may be surprised at how many people have gone to a counselor themselves. Plus, you may inspire them to feel more comfortable about seeking out help for themselves.
- Go Online
Good counselors will have a website where they can explain what they do, how they operate, what they cost, who they are for, and more. Furthermore, you can use the internet to find reviews from past patients. Finding reviews can be a little bit more difficult because people want to remain anonymous about their experiences, but it is certainly not impossible to find some.
- Speak to Your Health Insurance Company
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorder Parity, all insurance companies now have to offer some coverage for mental health treatment. Speak to your insurance company, check your policy documents, or go to their website to find out which in network providers you have to choose from and what type of coverage you receive. Not only will you be able to get a reduced price on your counseling, the therapist will also file all the relevant paperwork for you if you go in network.
- Speak to Your Faith Leader
Faith based counseling is very effective for people who have strong beliefs. Go to your church, synagogue, mosque, or temple, and ask about counseling services that they offer. You may be able to receive these services for free if you are part of the congregation.
- Use Online Counseling Directories
There are some excellent directories out there such as Good Therapy and Counseling Today where you can find reputable counselors. They will often be listed according to specific services they offer, which will make your search a lot easier.
- Speak to Your School
If you are a student, or if you are looking for a counselor for your child, then speaking to your school is also very beneficial. Colleges and universities are likely to have their own in-house counselors, and some schools do too.
- Speak to Your Doctor
Last but not least, your family physician may be able to refer you, or they may even be able to counsel you directly.