|
Hawaii Psychological Association > Finding Help
|
|
Information for consumers |
How do I find a qualified therapist?
Selecting a therapist is a highly personal matter. A
professional who works very well with one individual may not be a good
choice for another person. There are several ways to get referrals to
qualified therapists, such as licensed psychologists, including the
following:
- Talk to family members and friends for their recommendations,
especially if they have had a good experience with psychotherapy.
- Many state psychological associations, including the Hawaii
Psychological Association, operate referral services which put
individuals in touch with licensed and competent mental health care
providers.
- Ask your primary care physician (or other health professional)
for a referral. Tell the doctor what's important to you in choosing
a therapist so he or she can make appropriate suggestions.
- Look in the phone book for the listing of a local mental health
association or community mental health center and check these
sources for possible referrals.
Ideally, you will end up with more than one lead. Call
and request the opportunity, either on the phone or in person, to ask the
therapist some questions. You might want to inquire about his or her license
and level of training, approach to psychotherapy, participation in insurance
plans, and fees. Such a discussion should help you sort through your options
and choose someone with whom you believe you might interact well.
Back
 Next
©2008 Hawaii Psychological
Association
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|