Tips on Finding a Therapist

- COVID update: Therapist are very full, so contacting more providers than usual while you search is recommended. If a therapist is full, ask for referrals, and if they have a waiting list. If you are able to get on their waiting list check back often. There will be openings eventually! Hang in there!

- If you are specifically looking for someone who takes your insurance, start with their listed providers. (IE: Premera's list of contracted providers).

- If not, use websites like https://gottmanreferralnetwork.com/ or https://www.psychologytoday.com/us, https://www.goodtherapy.org/ to find a therapist in your area. Googling works too as not all therapists pay to be listed on databases.

- As you look at different options, look for someone with the least barrier to entry: make sure their schedule fits yours, location works, you understand their pricing, and understand how/if they accept your insurance and at what capacity.

- I would recommend emailing at least 4 - 5 providers and let them know briefly what you are looking for - providing goals you'd like to work on and/or problems you want to address is helpful. If there are any specialty skills/area of specialties that you are interested in, this would be a good time to ask the therapist if they provide that type of work. IE: specific approach to therapy, specific world-view (LGBTQ affirming, BIPOC, Christian perspective, kink/poly affirming). Also if you have specific scheduling requirements, financial issues, or other needs, its helpful to address those right away.

- Interview around! It's so important to find a good fit. Meet/talk with a few therapists and make sure you feel comfortable with him/her/them When you interview therapists, have a few goals in mind and ask how they will help you achieve those goals and approach your case. If you are seeking therapy with a partner or family, make sure all members feel mostly comfortable with the person (therapy is inherently a bit uncomfortable at first). A "good fit" is different for everyone, but minimally you should feel heard, understood, supported and that you are working towards your stated goals.

- If you find someone you like who is full, ask to be put on their waiting list, and check-in with them occasionally to see if there is any update on their availability.

- Make sure you fully understand their rates, if they accept insurance, and policies about cancellation and rescheduling. IE: I do not bill insurance directly, but can give a receipt for clients to send to insurance companies. However, it's the clients responsibility to check their coverage for my services. If they are an "out of network provider" you can ask for a superbill to provide to your insurance for reimbursement. It's worth it! Often insurances cover 50- 75%. It's a bit of work, but it's $$ back in your pocket!

- Remember as a client, you are also a customer! If you aren't happy with the service you are getting, let the therapist know. If the services doesn't change or meet your needs, feel free to look elsewhere!