***You can determine one's discipline by examining the credentials that follow the names. Here are a few: LCSW-C (Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical); MSW (Master in Social Work); PhD (Doctor of Philosophy - may be in any discipline); MFT (Master of Family Therapy); LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor); LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor); MD (Medical Doctor). Disciplines vary in many ways regarding their approach to counseling. Ask me about my orientation at any time. 
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Getting Started
Begin by identifying 1- 2 therapists using internet search engines that might allow a search by area, specialty or any other important deciding factors. Also determine what you're looking for in a therapist: someone who will simply listen? Someone who will give advice? Someone who will help you interpret life's events? A person who will challenge you to consider past mistakes or learn new behaviors? Keep in mind there are several disciplines qualified to provide counseling services: clinical social workers, psychologists, counselors, marriage and family therapists, etc. Psychiatrists typically prescribe and manage medications.*** Consultation Contact the therapist you have in mind and determine whether they may be a good fit. Some will offer a free or low cost video or in-person consultation. Others may do so by phone. Next, determine how you will pay for the therapy services. Does your insurance cover the costs and does the provider accept insurances? If not, what is the cost per session? |
Assessment
Counseling usually begins with an intake or an assessment. It's an opportunity to talk about why you're interested in therapy (or counseling) and why now. It's also an opportunity to discuss your work or school history, your family and other relationships, and your traumatic experiences. Depending on the nature of these traumas, you may decide to share less in the beginning until you develop a trusting relationship.
Intervention/Treatment
As the relationship develops, you might discuss treatment or intervention options. This may include classical "talk" therapy which helps clients develop meaning for past events, especially trauma and may also include body-based treatment where movement is integrated in to the therapy to enable processing of the trauma. This path is determined on a case by case basis and will look different for each person.
Counseling usually begins with an intake or an assessment. It's an opportunity to talk about why you're interested in therapy (or counseling) and why now. It's also an opportunity to discuss your work or school history, your family and other relationships, and your traumatic experiences. Depending on the nature of these traumas, you may decide to share less in the beginning until you develop a trusting relationship.
Intervention/Treatment
As the relationship develops, you might discuss treatment or intervention options. This may include classical "talk" therapy which helps clients develop meaning for past events, especially trauma and may also include body-based treatment where movement is integrated in to the therapy to enable processing of the trauma. This path is determined on a case by case basis and will look different for each person.