The Center for Brain/Mind Medicine > Resources

How to Find a Psychotherapist

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It’s normal to experience mood and anxiety symptoms in response to brain changes, and while caring for someone with a neurologic condition.  Individual psychotherapy can help process these feelings and point you in the direction of healthy adjustment.  However, finding a therapist can be challenging in itself.  When you’re ready to connect, you may find the following recommendations and resources helpful.

Things to Consider When Looking for a Psychotherapist

  • Your Goals – Consider what you want to accomplish by meeting with a psychotherapist.  Current issues or previous experience with a particular type of psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, psychoanalysis, etc.) may serve as guides.  Learn more about different types of therapy by clicking here.
  • Payment – Identify how you will pay for therapy (private pay or through health insurance).
  • Personality Fit – Studies show that comfort and connection with your therapist can be the biggest factors in sustaining therapy and creating change in your life.  Consider this as you explore options, and keep an open mind.

Starting Your Search

  • Call Your Health Insurance – If you plan on billing health insurance, call your plan’s behavioral health line or log-in to your insurer’s website to obtain a listing of providers in your area.
  • Ask Friends – If you are comfortable, ask people within your circle for recommendations.
  • Referrals From Doctors – Your Primary Care Provider may have referral resources.  The CBMM offers short-term, skill-based therapy with Clinical Social Workers for patients and caregivers who are followed in our clinic.  These resources are limited, and wait times may be lengthy.  For your own well-being, it may be best to start the process by connecting with a community psychotherapist.
  • Therapy Directories – Web-based search engines can identify potential mental health clinicians.  These platforms offer filters to narrow down the options by issue, insurance, gender, type of therapy, language, in-person vs. virtual, and areas of diversity (ethnicity, sexuality, faith).
  • Online Therapy – A private and convenient way to access mental health without requiring a visit to an in-person therapy office.  You connect with your therapist via video call, phone call, or text message, depending on your needs and preferences.  A few tips: ask if you can interview therapists to find the right fit, ensure you can access the type of provider you want, and understand plan options, payment, and refund policy.
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