Help Wanted

The Wall Street Journal on October 18 featured an article in the Health and Wellness section about finding the right therapist. The article offered suggestions to ask of a therapist like “Based on my symptoms, what kind of treatment would you suggest?” and other helpful hints. Finding the right therapist is often trial and error. It is about finding a good fit with the therapist, someone whom you feel understands you and can help you achieve your goals. It is a collaboration between yourself and the therapist working together. Sometimes this means you may have to “try on” a couple therapists until you find the right fit. It can be a discouraging process but if you remain hopeful, you can find a person who can join with you in working through a particular issue.

The WSJ used the analogy of Goldilocks – one therapist was “too hard,” another was “too soft,” and the last was “just right.” Though this sounds a little silly, it holds truth. Some therapists may take an approach that is too tough for your personality. And another therapist may never direct the sessions, allowing you to wander aimlessly or worse, cross boundaries such as becoming a friend. The right therapist is the one that fits good for you.