Most people don’t seek out help when they are feeling “fine” or when they are not in crisis. By the time they recognize the need for some support, they often want it as quickly as possible. The best thing you can do is to take action in a timely manner, while also being thoughtful about the process. The community of mental health providers in Wichita is saturated with tons of great options. The first step in your journey is finding the right provider for you.
By doing some extra research and knowing what to look for, you can save yourself time (and the pain of choosing bad fit in therapist) in the long run. For example, if you are feeling depressed and looking for someone to help — it may be more helpful to look for someone who specializes in that area versus googling your closest therapist (who just happens to specialize in OCD). Additionally, if you are without insurance and have a specific budget — it’s important that you find a therapist that accepts your insurance or that can work within your budget (some therapists have reduced fees or a sliding scale fee for those without insurance).
Here are some tips for finding the right mental health therapist in Wichita
1. Ask for a referral from friends and family members.
If you have a friend or family member who has personally been to a psychologist, therapist or counselor in the Wichita area and has had a positive experience with that person, asking them for a referral is a good start. Here are some additional questions to ask that person or to consider when beginning this process: Does the therapist or counselor specialize in your concern? Do your personalities mesh well? Do you have a preference in gender, age, or experience of the therapist? What may be therapeutic for one person, might be anxiety-provoking to another. A good fit in therapist is usually one that has knowledge and experience with your issues, AND is comfortable for you to talk with.
2. Search The Web For Psychologists, Therapists or Counselors in Wichita.
If you aren’t having luck with people you know (or feel too uncomfortable asking), you may want to search on the internet. Most therapists have websites and biographies that explain their expertise. There are also search engines that have listings and profiles of a significant number of therapists, such as Psychology Today and GoodTherapy.org. These search engines can help you find a helping professional by zip code, specialty, insurance accepted, and more. Read each profile carefully and cross-check them with the therapist’s own website (if they have one) to see if a particular therapist’s philosophy resonates and if they treat your presenting concerns.
3. Take Time to Make This Decision Once You Meet with A Potential Therapist or Counselor.
Once you meet the therapist for the first time, it’s important to take the time to consider if the therapist is a good fit for you. In the initial session, you often get a good feel for the therapist and their style for therapy. It’s also an opportunity to ask them specific questions about their style of therapy. If you feel like something is off or strongly disagree with something the therapist says about you or do not like their approach, I encourage you to give your therapist direct feedback.
If nothing changes and you continue to feel uncomfortable, you have a right to ask your therapist for a referral to another therapist who may be a better match. Please keep in mind that if you are hearing the same feedback from more than one therapist, it may be time to take a step back and really reflect on the what they are saying and if there may be some truth to it (even if it’s not easy to hear).
It can be tough, but it’s worth it!
Finding a therapist or counselor for the first time can be challenging, but with a little bit of patience and the right information, you can find the fit that works best for you without additional struggle, anxiety, and frustration.
Soma Therapy is passionate about is pairing people with the RIGHT fit in therapist, psychologist, or counselor. If we don’t have the right fit in therapist, we are connected with several therapists in and referrals in Wichita and would be happy to help you find the best fit. Please do not hesitate to contact me personally at jenny@somawichita.com or call 316-201-6047 to set up an appointment.
All my best and wishing you luck in your search!
Jenny Helms, Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Therapist
If you or a loved one is struggling with any of these issues, please contact us today to get a compassionate and thorough intake so we can connect you with the best services possible. Hope is just a phone call away! (316) 201-6047 or contact us here.