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If you want help with a personal or family problem and are seeking the right psychotherapist to assist you, there are several things you should take into account.

Take the Time to Find a Professional with Whom You Feel Comfortable.  If Possible, Briefly Interview Therapists by Phone

As you speak with therapists on the phone and give a brief description of your concerns, pay attention to the interaction between yourself and them.  Do you feel they are sensitive to your concerns?   Do they seem knowledgeable and perceptive to the issues that are important to you?

Select a Professional whose License, Area(s) of Specialization and Experience Meet Your Needs

There are a number of kinds of licensed psychotherapists.  Though they are similar, each profession has a distinct emphasis and scope of practice.  Following is a description of the most common types of licensees.

Marriage and Family Therapist

Professionals who have a Masters or PhD in psychology and are licensed by the state to use their training in helping individuals to mature and grow within marriage and the family.  They specialize in dealing with   explanations and interpretations of the psychosexual and psychosocial aspects of relationships.

Clinical Social Worker

Professionals who provide counseling  of a nonmedical nature.   They explain or interpret  psychosocial aspects in the situations of individuals, families, or groups, and provide information and referral services.

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists often interview patients and give diagnostic tests. They may provide individual, family, or group psychotherapy, and design and implement behavior modification programs. Although clinical psychologists cannot legally prescribe medication, they often collaborate with physicians and other specialists to develop and implement treatment and intervention programs that patients can understand and comply with.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) who has completed medical school, an additional four year residency in psychiatry and is licensed to prescribe medications.

Talk to Your Insurance Company about Your Plans to Receive Psychotherapy

Call your insurance company and ask if the therapist you have selected can be reimbursed under your policy.   Also ask if there must be a pre-authorization - i.e.,  must the insurance company pre-authorize services prior to your first visit?

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