How Therapy Works - Start To Session

Okay, so you have decided therapy is something you are interested in doing. Your no longer able to cope with the stressors of life independently, and seeking professional help is something that you feel you need to move forward. But where do you start? We are here to help make the process a little easier by breaking it down for you.

1. Talk to your family doctor. Your family doctor will be able to assess your symptoms and let you know if there is anything that may need additional support. Sometimes symptoms of mental health can overlap with physical health conditions. Getting baseline lab tests and assessments can give your medical professional the information they need to make an accurate recommendation. They also will be able to recommend steps, which may include medication in addition to therapy, depending on personal preference and severity of symptoms. They also may recommend a referral to a public funded therapy option or a psychiatrist for an evaluation if symptoms require it. They also may recommend what modality of therapy would be best for your symptoms (i.e Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).

2. Once you receive more information from your family doctor/ practitioner, now begins the search for what you are looking for in a therapist! There are many directories depending on where you live that provide refined searches for therapists in your area. An example of a Directry for therapists is Psychology Today, Affordable Therapy Network, Find A Student Therapist, etc. These platforms refines therapists by their specialty, qualifications, modalities, experience, etc. Here you will be able to browse through various professionals and inquire with those you feel would be a good fit.

3. Look into your insurance benefits if you have them. Most licensed therapist services are covered under benefits (to a maximum amount per year), knowing this information can help with understanding what your therapy budget is and how frequent you would like sessions.

4. Set up Consultations! This is such an important step. A good therapeutic relationship is key to meeting treatment goals. Set up multiple consultations to have comparables, weighing the benefits of each option before making a decision--your therapist is someone you will be sharing vulnerable information with, it should be someone who fosters a warm and trusting environment. Once you have made a decision, reach out and find out what the steps are for setting up a first session. Congratulations! You have made it from Start to Session!

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