Choosing A Counselor

1. Your own feelings.Perhaps the best guide in selecting a counselor are your own reactions to the help you receive in an actual session. Research has shown that your feelings about the kind of rapport that the counselor creates, much more than credentials and technical expertise, is the major factor in successful outcome in counseling.

2. Ask questions. Persons who call to set up an office visit, use the telephone to ask me questions. As more providers become connected to the web, consumers will have a chance to get even more information about treatment approach. The following list of questions are entirely appropriate to ask before setting up an appointment.
  • How many years have you been in practice?
  • Do you have experience dealing with the particular
     kind of problems that lead me to seek help?
  • What are your particular areas of expertise?
  • What are your fees?
  • What is your participation in managed care programs?

3. Does the profession have a code of ethical standards? Consumers place considerable trust in a professional helper because of degrees and licenses. Counseling psychologists are aware of the responsibilities of this trust. They strive, by following their code of ethics, to keep the welfare of their client paramount.

4. Do not let discouragement prevent you from finding a counselor. If you belong to a managed care program, it may take a number of calls to get an appointment. Even if you get an appointment, you may not feel the relationship allows you to feel safe to explore the vulnerabilities that are part of your experience. However, studies have shown that even if you do not “click” with one counselor, this does not mean you cannot benefit from talking with a helping professional. Keep trying until you find someone you feel understands you.