How to Find the Right Style of Therapy for Your Needs

Most people don’t realize that licensed therapists are trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. That is, they operate using a variety of techniques and tools that aren’t the same from one therapist to the next. Where some therapists are considered client-driven and solution-focused, others are more directive and likely to offer what feels more like advice. Where one therapist will help you to come up with answers for yourself, another will give you answers directly.

Some clients prefer therapists who have a certain style. The reality is that all patients have more success when they find a therapist who’s a good match for their personality style and preferences. The trick is in how to find a therapist who will be a good fit for you. For a few ways to find a therapist who practices the right type of therapy for your needs, read on.

Client-driven Therapies

therapy

Client-driven therapies are great for people who hope to learn tools to better control their own mental health issues or who want to make big lifestyle changes. If you’re someone who considers yourself independent and is interested in a counselor who will help you learn to make decisions without the help of counseling in the future, this could be a great model for you. Look for therapists who practice solution-focused, narrative therapy, or mindfulness therapy.

When finding a therapist for your needs, you’ll also want to think about your overall goals and whether a therapist offers specific skill sets. Berkshire Therapy Group, for example, offers career counseling for people hoping to gain the skills they need to lock down their career goals and work to their potential.

While career counseling isn’t something all therapy groups in the United States offer, knowing what you need and asking for it is a great way to get closer to your goals. Don’t hesitate to give a place like Berkshire a call for informational purposes.

Structured Therapies, Medications, and Treatment Plans

img

If you’re someone who enjoys structure and a solid plan, a more structured approach to therapy could be a better fit for you. Look for therapists who practice CBT, DBT, or who offer a combination of group and individual therapy to find a great match for you. While these therapists are unlikely to offer career development tips, they generally give you the option of Telehealth visits as well as workbooks to use on your own.

Many structured therapy plans work in tangent with prescription medications from a psychiatrist. This can get expensive. If medication is part of your treatment plan, it’s a good idea to talk to your pharmacist or visit www.usarx.com for discounts on prescription medications. A discounted drug cost could add up to big savings for your wallet; adding to peace of mind.

Alternative Therapies

img

If you’re the creative type, music, art, or even equine therapy could be a great fit for you. Perfect for people with social anxiety, these types of therapies are often done in groups and will allow you to practice socializing with the benefit of something to focus on and your professional counselor there to help with real-life interventions. Even if it’s your first time in therapy, an alternative therapy program for a creative person could add up to great results.

When calling a therapy group to learn more about their alternative programs, be sure to be clear about your needs. You might be surprised at how transparent a licensed therapist will be about whether they believe they can help or not. Sometimes, they’ll help to recommend the type of therapy that might work best for you. Reach out.

One size does not fit all.

When considering the right type of therapy or therapist for you, think of it like building a wardrobe. Maybe you’ve had the experience of searching for the best jeans for petite women and had great success through the global market one day. On another day, you could try on a similar pair of jeans and something feels off.

Maybe the hem’s too long or the cut is all wrong. Even the tiniest thing can make a big difference in your confidence. Instead of settling for a less than perfect fit, it’s worth the effort to therapist shop. When you do find your perfect fit, you’ll be glad for it and well on your way to feeling better. In fact, in taking the time to find the right type of therapy for you, you’re already practicing those important skills of advocating for yourself.

Therapy does not work without the benefit of the therapeutic alliance, otherwise known as a solid working relationship. Therefore, it’s paramount that you find a therapist whose style matches well with your own. It’s okay to have a few sessions with one therapist and decide that they aren’t a good fit for you.

Simply ask your therapist for a referral to another therapist or schedule a new first session with someone different. In being transparent about your feelings in therapy and what is and isn’t working for you, you’ll put yourself in a better position to succeed.