We often don’t put ourselves first. It is for this reason that flight attendants remind us to put on our oxygen mask first before putting it on a child, in case of emergency. These days, we are getting pulled in so many different directions, that the feeling of stress and depletion is so common. We need to put on our own oxygen mask first.

 

The therapy office is a space for just you. It’s a slice of time in your week to stop, breathe, unpack, reflect and move forward. It’s my job as a therapist to create a safe space in those four walls, to walk with you on your journey toward your goals, to listen and be your ally to help get you where you want to go.

 

It can be a nerve-wracking thing, though, to try to find the right therapist. So where do you even start?

 

1.    Ask friends or family for suggestions, if you’re comfortable doing this. Word of mouth referrals can be great.

2.    Search online for therapists that work close to your home, work or school.

3.    Read the biographies for therapists who specialize in what you would like to work on. Try to get a sense of the therapist through their listings.

4.    If you have insurance coverage, reach out to them to see who they cover and how much.

5.    Reach out to the therapist for an initial contact.

 

While profile pictures, credentials, fees, location, experience and therapeutic approaches all factor into the decision, it is ultimately the feeling you get from the initial contact that will set the stage for this important relationship. Does the therapist get back in a timely manner? Do they offer time to talk by phone or in person before you commit to a first appointment? Do they sound understanding? Are they really listening to you? Do they sound organized and can offer you some structure so that you feel psychologically safe walking into their office for the first time?

 

It takes a huge amount of courage to make a first call to a therapist! It takes even more courage to walk through the door to the office. You will be nervous. You will be uncertain. You may hope this is a good decision. It is my job to make you feel safe and heard and held. It is my job to facilitate a relationship. It is my job to be well trained and well informed to bring you to the place you want to go. It is my job to create a confidential, safe and trusting environment.

 

If you are interested in meeting with me, feel free to reach out (without financial or other obligation) and we can talk about whether this is a good initial match. I can be reached at 416-795-8006, [email protected], or joannasalit.com.