How To Find Top-Rated Psychologists Near Me
If you found this article, you are likely searching for a psychologist. Wanting to find someone who is top-notch in their field will serve you well, but it can be challenging. This article will give you more information on what to look for in a psychologist and how to find the right one for you.
Reasons To Find A Psychologist
Before you start looking for a psychologist, it's important to know what your reasons are for doing so. Some psychologists specialize in different areas of mental health, so knowing what kind of help you want, or what you want help with, will help determine who and what you're looking for.
For example, if you are struggling in your marriage and want help with relationship counseling, you might look for a different psychologist than you would if you were experiencing anxiety and depression. While there are many different reasons why people see a psychologist, here are some of the most common:
Anxiety
One of the most common mental health challenges that people around the world experience is anxiety. This is what you feel when you are nervous or worried about situations that have not happened yet or that you fear will come to pass. Many people lose sleep at night or change their daily routine based on their anxiety. It has a lot of physical and mental symptoms. If left untreated, it can often lead to depression. Anxiety is not something that only adults deal with; it is also present in children of all ages.
There are also different types of anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. While it's normal to experience anxiety on small levels in daily life, it should not interfere with your life. When it does, it's time to get help.
Depression
There are many different reasons why people experience depression in life. Sometimes people know what the reason is, like the death of a loved one. However, there are also times when people experience feelings of depression without knowing what the cause is. Regardless of whether you know the reason or not, a psychologist can help you learn how to cope with your feelings of depression.
Grief
Whether you are experiencing grief over the loss of a loved one, loss of a relationship, loss of a job, or a different type of loss, a psychologist can help you deal with grief. They can help you healthily work through the stages and learn ways to cope with the feelings that you are experiencing.
Addiction
Another common reason why people need a psychologist is to learn how to overcome addiction. This could include addiction to substances like drugs and alcohol, or from things like gambling, shopping, pornography, or overeating. There are many different types of addiction, and there are psychologists that specialize in therapy to treat it.
Relationship Problems
Relationships are difficult, and many couples find themselves going to counseling at some point. It could be that they want to improve their relationship before things go bad. It might be that they are in the middle of a very difficult time in their relationship, such as after an affair, and are trying to figure out how to proceed or if the relationship can survive.
Struggling With The Way Life Is Going
Many people will seek the help of a psychologist because they aren't happy with the way their life is. It may be that they struggle with self-confidence or that they are having a hard time finding balance in their life and they're hoping a psychologist can help them.
Other Mental Health Challenges
The above are just some of the more common reasons people seek the help of a psychologist. Many other mental health challenges bring people to a psychologist.
What To Look For In A Psychologist
When you start looking for top-rated psychologists, there are several things that you want to identify. The first thing that you want to look at is their credentials. You want to make sure that you are working with a licensed psychologist that has been trained to help you with the issues you are dealing with. You want to make sure that they have the education to support the work that they are trying to do.
You also want to find a psychologist who has experience working with the symptoms that you are experiencing. Every licensed psychologist may be able to address these issues, but it doesn't mean that they have the same experience in doing so. When you find a psychologist who specializes in what you are going through, you know that they are investing more time into that area than other psychologists may be. This means that they may be a better fit for helping you establish a treatment plan for your life.
Just because someone is a top-rated psychologist does not necessarily mean that they will cost more. However, you will want to consider the cost when you are looking for a psychologist to meet with. You will want to determine whether your health insurance plan will cover the psychologist or if you will need to pay out-of-pocket. If you are paying out-of-pocket, some psychologists offer sliding-scale fees to help offset the costs that you will need to pay. This makes it more affordable for you.
Finding A Psychologist Near Me
If you want to find a psychologist in your area, there are several ways you can get started. If you have already talked to your family doctor about your mental health challenges, then you can start by asking your physician for a referral. They may have a psychologist that they like working with and trust. If not, you can also try asking family and friends. You may be surprised at how many people you know personally who have been to counseling before.
Another way to find a psychologist in your area is to try searching online. This will help you to see all the options that you have available in your local area and present you with any reviews that other people have left. This can give you some information about each one before you begin making calls to talk with them.
Once you find a psychologist that you think would be a good fit, it's a good idea to see if you can talk to them on the phone before having an official appointment. This can help you get a feel for the psychologist and help you decide if they are a good fit.
Finding A Psychologist Online
If you are interested in trying online therapy, there are many options available to you. What’s more, studies increasingly show that remote therapy delivers the same results as its in-person alternative. This has been shown with video chatting and calling. More recently, instant message-based therapy has even been shown to elicit lasting success for patients. As clinical psychologist Nina Barlevy, PsyD, told the American Psychological Association (APA), “[It is] a whole lot more appealing to be able to sit at your computer and type back and forth with someone.”
With online therapy, you might find it easier to find highly-experienced and top-rated counselors from the comfort of your own home. There are many companies that you can look into that are providing these services including BetterHelp. Read what others have to say about their experiences with the platform.
Therapist Reviews
“Larry is very experienced and quite capable of listening and ascertaining the root cause of any issues that we have discussed. He has always been able to provide a helpful method of addressing different issues. I appreciate his candid nature of re-directing my often erroneous perspective on some of my life challenges. Looking forward to in-depth discussions going forward.”
“Alisha Edmiston takes the time to listen and really understand what I am struggling with. She is the most experienced and engaged counsellor that I have had the privilege to be able to work with. She has really and truly changed my life for the better in helping me to work through my past and better manage my present. This has given me hope - which is priceless.”
Looking For The Best Child Psychologist Near Me
If you are looking for the best child psychologist to work with, some things will be a little different than looking for a counselor for an adult. For example, you will not find a child psychologist that you can meet online. These services are typically reserved for those over the age of 18. You will want to look for a psychologist who specializes in working with your child's age. A good way to find one to work with is to talk to your child's pediatrician.
The psychologist that specializes in working with children will also specialize in different therapy options, such as play therapy and art therapy. This can be beneficial in helping your child work through their challenges.
Takeaway
When looking for a psychologist to work with, it’s important to remember that every person is different. That means that someone might be perfectly happy meeting with one psychologist when another person may not connect with that professional. When it comes to addressing challenges with your mental health, you want to make sure that you find someone that you are comfortable working with. You need to be able to be open with them as you answer questions.
If you are meeting with one psychologist and find that things aren't clicking or you aren't making the progress that you were hoping to make, don't be afraid to switch and find a new psychologist to work with. Some people connect better with certain people than others. You need to find the fit that is best for you. BetterHelp has thousands of professional therapists from which to choose. Reach out today.
FAQs
How do I find the best psychologist?
Finding the best psychologist isn’t as difficult as it seems. In fact, sources like VeryWell Mind and Psychology Today say that there are thousands of options to choose from in every state. Therefore, research should always be the first step.
The American Psychoanalysis Association (APSA) is the top organization for psychological resources in the United States. Their experts suggest doing the following things to find the best psychologist in your area:
- Call your state’s psychological association.
- Talk to someone at your local college or university.
- Ask your family doctor for a referral.
- Seek recommendations from family and friends.
- Look in the local newspaper for ads.
Once you discover a few viable options, do some more research to determine their experience level with issues like yours. Check for state-issued licensing and insurance too, then try to make a connection to see if you’re compatible.
NOTE: Research shows that the states with the best psychologists are New York, Rhode Island, North Dakota, and New Jersey. The lowest rated states are Alabama, Alaska, South Carolina, and New Hampshire. States such as Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, and Washington fall somewhere in the middle.
Is it better to see a psychiatrist or psychologist?
To determine whether a psychiatrist or psychologist is better, you must first know the definition of each. Both are mental health professionals, although their job descriptions are very different. First, psychologists are not medical doctors, but psychiatrists are. That means psychiatrists are the only ones that can prescribe medications. They can also diagnose illnesses, recommend and/or administer treatments, and provide many different services such as online therapy.
Meanwhile, psychologists give patients the opportunity to enjoy one-on-one “free association” sessions, often followed by an undiagnosable psychoanalysis. Some patients may even get a referral to a psychiatrist that way. In the field of psychology today, there’s a lot of overlap but the clear lines have been drawn either way. Find a therapist that suits your needs by considering the differences.
What is the difference between a therapist and a psychologist?
There is very little difference between a therapist and a psychologist in terms of how they deal with clinical, social, or behavioral health patients. Both can manage a private practice in the United States, although the highest concentration of therapists is in places like New York, Los Angeles, and the District of Columbia (DC). Regardless of location, things like therapy cost and recommended timelines can vary widely in the field of psychology today.
That’s because psychologists generally spend more time in school than therapists do. So, they require several years of supervised practice to get a license. Meanwhile, the word “therapist” is commonly used as an umbrella term to describe any mental health professional that has been trained to provide many different treatments approaches.
What are the 3 types of therapy?
There are more than three types of therapy, although many people assume otherwise because of how much attention certain therapies get. In reality, there are at least five different therapy types. Those types, and a brief description thereof, are as follows:
- Psychodynamic - a long-term approach primarily focused on psychoanalysis
- Behavioral - an action-oriented approach used to manage or alter behavior responses
- CBT - a short-term approach that combined behavioral therapies with cognitive development
- Humanistic - a guided approach used to broaden perspectives and clarify interpretations
- Integrative - a blended approach that uses several different therapies simultaneously
Within each type are often several subtypes as well. So, talk a therapist for more information.
What is the best type of therapy for anxiety?
The best type of therapy for people with anxiety depends heavily on underlying mental and emotional health issues as well as the patient’s ability and willingness to seek help. Usually, that doesn’t happen until the patient’s physical health becomes affected. Therefore, intense psychodynamic psychotherapies are often needed to undo the damage. In the United States and Puerto Rico, the most common therapeutic approach for anxiety is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT. Research published by Psychology Today shows CBT’s effectiveness in treating many anxiety-related symptoms such as phobias, social uneasiness, and panic attacks. In fact, most patients experience a measurable improvement within just a few sessions.
Which psychotherapy is most effective?
Psychology experts in states like North Carolina, Arizona, Arkansas, and West Virginia report seeing the most progress in patients that underwent intense CBT. In fact, a recent clinical review of CBT guidelines stated that it’s “the most researched psychotherapy for depression, with the largest weight of evidence for…efficacy.”
What are the four types of psychotherapy?
In the United States, there are at least four different types of psychotherapy practiced in the field of psychology today. Professionals can thereby provide a wide range of clinical, social, and/or behavioral therapies. Thus, the four main psychotherapeutic approaches are as follows, with many subtypes within:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Family Therapy
- Interpersonal Therapy
State-ran mental health organizations may or may not offer all of those therapies on-site. Therefore, a referral may be needed to find compatible help. In addition, therapists with their own private practice may be able to provide integrated therapies for complex cases.
What are the 4 types of talk therapy?
The four types of talk therapy are: humanistic, behavioral, cognitive, and psychodynamic. Generally, all four therapeutic approaches are available at most local mental health facilities. However, therapists with a private practice may be able to offer more options such as integrative therapies, group counseling, and free association psychoanalysis.
NOTE: Those who live in small or mostly rural states like South Dakota, North Dakota, Tennessee, or New Mexico may still be able to find help. Thanks to modern technologies, patients can now participate in talk therapy online.
Does psychotherapy really work?
According to hundreds of clinical studies, psychotherapy helps more than 75% of the people who use it. The other 25% usually consists of people who either exited their therapeutic programs too soon or were diagnosed with more serious mental health conditions after several sessions. By design, the psychotherapeutic approach is set up to help patients make positive changes in their lives, including but not limited to these:
- Reducing anxiety
- Curing depression
- Coping with grief
- Healing childhood trauma
So far, millions of people in America have experienced substantial healing as a result of comprehensive psychotherapy. In states like North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas, many patients prefer to use online services instead of in-person counseling. Both options can offer tremendous benefits to those involved.
What are the 3 benefits of all forms of therapy?
Depending on the person and their reasons for seeking therapy, there may be more than just three major benefits. However, all forms of therapy has the same basic advantages. So, whether you live in California, Colorado, Connecticut, or Delaware, there’s always a therapist available to offer the following three things:
- A revamped perspective on life
- Fresh hope for demoralized spirits
- Trustworthy mentorship
In short, therapists are highly trained professionals who can provide a caring, empathetic ear and/or positive, uplifting advice when life becomes overwhelming.
How long should psychotherapy last?
The length of psychotherapy depends on several factors, including the patient’s adaptability to the various exercises and approaches used. On average, sessions last for about an hour and often continue for several months or years. However, patients can also find solace after a single meeting with the right psychotherapist.
Does psychotherapy work for anxiety?
Psychiatrists can diagnose anxiety disorders before teaching their patients how to cope and heal. Often, they’ll use what’s known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, to foster positive changes in a person’s general outlook and demeanor. Thus, psychotherapies such as CBT can help reduce anxiety, boost self-worth, and establish healthier coping mechanisms than anger, resentment, or blame.
What should I not tell a psychiatrist?
Put simply, you should try to be as open and honest with your psychiatrist as possible. That’s because the more they know, the more they can help you. However, it’s quite common for a patient to withhold their deepest, darkest secrets, at least at first.
Meanwhile, there are certain things that all patients should be careful not to say during a therapy session because they’re either counterproductive or dangerous. Comments like the following should be avoided at all costs, unless you’re looking for more intensive therapies and interventions:
- Blatant refusals to take advice
- Admissions of crime involvement
- Desires to hurt oneself or others
Don’t refrain from telling your therapist when you feel angry, frustrated, or overwhelmed though. Remember, the success of your therapy depends on your willingness to impart personal details, even if it’s difficult or embarrassing. Your therapist is there to help you feel more comfortable no matter what.
NOTE: Each state has its own therapeutic protocols. But in the District of Columbia, Florida, and Georgia, for example, all therapists must report certain comments to the local authorities.
Does CBD help anxiety?
Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of CBD, or cannabinoids, for the treatment of anxiety and/or depression. In fact, some research suggests it also treats the underlying symptoms of many mental health conditions, including insomnia, mania, panic attacks, and eating disorders. However, there is still much to be discovered about the pros and cons of this marijuana-derived substance.
States on the east coast such as Connecticut, Delaware, and the District of Columbia were the first to legalize cannabinoids for medicinal use. Their platforms focused primarily on the proven fact that CBD can help treat severe anxiety in people of all ages. Moreover, the substance presents very few negative side effects and isn’t habit forming at all. Plus, it contains no THC, so it won’t get you high.
NOTE: Experts suggest starting with small doses of CBD, with the recommended amount ranging from 300mg to 600mg, depending on your BMI.
Should I go to a psychiatrist for anxiety?
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in the country. It’s also linked to numerous mental, emotional, and physical health problems. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to talk to a doctor or therapist if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the symptoms. Usually, generalized anxiety can be treated quicky. However, more severe cases may require intense psychotherapies.
What should you tell your first visit to a therapist?
Working with a therapist means receiving personalized mental health services on a self-paced schedule. So, you should always mention your goals and timeline at the first therapy session. Also, be sure to give a little background on why you’re there, even if you get emotional immediately. That’s because your therapist is using the information to build your treatment plan. The more you share, the more they can help. However, spilling everything on day one is not a good idea.
Instead, talk about your relationships, interests, hobbies, strengths, and weaknesses. Meanwhile, understand that your therapist may do most of the speaking at first. They’ll ask common questions like: “Why are you here?”, “What have you been doing to cope?”, and “Have you ever been in therapy before?” Try to answer honestly with as much information as you can.
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