A Guide to Finding the Right Therapist for Parents (Because We Do Need It)

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As parents, we sometimes seek the help of a therapist as we struggle with issues that affect the way we take good care of our families — and this is normal.

Therapists give advice and treatment for when parents can no longer handle the problems they encounter. Consulting with a therapist is probably one of the best and safest ways to help overcome mental and physical struggles. 

Before finding a therapist to guide you, parents can seek help from their loved ones. Simple communication can also be a good means of therapy. Speaking with a compassionate person about what you are going through and how you feel can definitely help you feel better, as talking to a person you trust can be really therapeutic. It is beneficial when you can express your concerns or speak about something that is bothering your mind.

READ: How Therapy Makes You A Better Parent

To some, it may be essential to look for a therapist when you can no longer handle the struggles that are affecting your, children your marriage, and most importantly, your life. 

So How can Parents Find The Best Therapist That Is Appropriate For Their Needs?

Consider looking at the therapist's experiences

Experience is one of the primary reasons for seeing a therapist rather than just talking to a friend. Parents should look for a therapist who has experience with the issues they're dealing with. We also want to consider therapists who specialize in some fields related to your experience — depression or eating disorders, for example.

Parents should know that experienced therapists have seen the issues they're dealing with for how many times and these kinds of issues are not new to them; that is why they are called experts. Their experiences broaden their perspective and provide them with adequate knowledge. In some other cases, such as when trauma is involved, seeing a specialist is completely necessary.

ALSO READ: Family matters: Why family needs to join child therapy

Knowing how to start

Explore the sources you can to find for the best therapist you need. Consider the following steps.

1. Start calling a psychiatry or psychology department at the universities and ask for advice from people who have completed the program you think can help you best.
2. If you have a current therapist, ask him for recommendations for someone he may know in the place (in case you're moving).
3. After calling universities, start calling the big clinics and ask for their recommendations.
4. And lastly, consider asking your family and your friends. 

READ MORE: Effective Therapies Every Parent with an Autistic Child Should Know

Look into free consultations

If you aren't sure about the one you choose yet, it will help make an appointment with the therapist. Most clinics will give you a free 15- to 20-minute call to see if they can manage and if they are appropriate for your needs. Don't be afraid to ask the clinic if they have any experience managing your condition, as well as any other issues that come up during your phone call.

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