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Choosing the right therapist
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What to look for, what to ask

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Qualified therapists may have many different kinds of training. Aside from looking at the initials after their names, how can you choose one who will be helpful to you?

Selecting a therapist who is a good match is important, because the research demonstrates that the quality of your relationship is crucial to the success of the work.  Here are some guidelines to consider before your initial consultation.

  • The therapist should be willing to answer questions about her training and experience with your particular problem or goal.
  • It's natural to feel anxious when meeting a therapist, but she or he should have the ability to put you at ease.
  • Look for a therapist who is willing to listen carefully and explore issues with you, rather than one who offers a quick solution.
  • Know that the ethical guidelines of most professional mental health organizations state that psychotherapists should not treat clients with whom they have a personal or social relationship.
  • Don't limit your search to therapists your insurance company will reimburse. Many therapists work on a sliding fee scale and prefer to avoid third-party reimbursement in order to preserve client confidentiality and ensure the continuity of the therapeutic work.
  • If you are in a managed-care plan that requires access to your diagnosis or limits the number of sessions, you and your therapist should decide from the start how to handle issues of confidentiality and continuity.
Keep in mind that there is no "world's greatest therapist." Therapists are human beings with individual personalities. Trust your instincts about finding the right one for you. 

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N.Y. Licensed Psychoanalyst
Certified, National Association for the Advancement of Psychoanalysis
Member, American Association of Pastoral Counselors
Individuals, Couples, Parent coaching
Westchester County and New York City
914-941-6478
212-802-7333
 
Serving the online community as well as midtown Manhattan, 10016, 10022, 10017,  Westchester Putnam Dutchess and Fairfield counties, including Ossining Briarcliff Manor Croton-on-Hudson Yorktown Heights Sleepy Hollow Tarrytown Pleasantville Pocantico Hills Chappaqua Millwood Mount Kisco Somers Katonah Mahopac Irvington Hastings-on-Hudson Yonkers and Valhalla.  Individual therapy, spiritual counseling, couples counseling, and parent coaching, as well as premarital counseling and help with divorce, relationships and communication.
 
 
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