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Looking for a therapist can be a daunting task. There are so many factors to consider, and the system is not always clear. When seeking a therapist, consider qualifications, finances, fit, and convenience. The information and suggestions below are specific to Ontario. However, much of the information is common to other provinces and states.

Qualifications

Decide what services you need. There are multiple professions that provide therapy. Some of which are not regulated (e.g. clergy, life coaches, etc.) but may provide great value to you. A “regulated” professional is one that is registered (i.e. licensed) with a governing College, which is an agency designed to protect the public from fraud and abuse. This list covers some of the more common regulated mental health providers.

  • Psychiatrists and other Physicians – (Medication, Diagnosis, & Therapy) These are medical doctors (MD/DO) who completed medical school, and then a residency in psychiatry or supplemental training in therapy. They can prescribe medication and often provide medication a follow-up as needed, from multiple times per week to a few times per year. Some provide therapy, but many do not. Not all patients are aware if they are participating in therapy or a routine medication follow-up. If you are working with a physician for your mental health needs, it is suggested that you ask if you should also participate in traditional therapy from another professional. This is the only professional covered by OHIP, but also the only one that requires a physician referral.
  • Psychologists – (Therapy, Assessment, & Diagnosis) These are doctoral level professionals (PhD/PsyD/EdD) who completed a doctorate in psychology and then a residency in psychology as well.  They do not prescribe medication. They can provide formal assessments and testing to diagnose a wide range of statuses, such as giftedness, intellectual disabilities, and learning disabilities. They usually provide therapy.
  • Psychological Associates – (Therapy, Assessment, & Diagnosis) These are masters level professionals (MA/MS) who completed a master’s degree in psychology and then post-graudate supervision in psychology as well.  They do not prescribe medication. They can provide formal assessments and testing to diagnose a wide range of statuses, such as giftedness, intellectual disabilities, and learning disabilities. They usually provide therapy.
  • Social Workers – (Therapy & Case Management) These are at least bachelors level professionals (BSW/MSW) who provide therapy and case management. The latter refers to assistance accessing funding and community services. Examples include seeking employment, completing DSO paperwork, locating housing options, and immigration support.
  • Psychotherapists – (Therapy & possibly Case Management) These professionals are governed by a new (as of 2015) College in Ontario, and training can range greatly.  Though psychotherapists typically have at least a bachelors degree in a mental health field (BA/BS/MA/MS). It catches all of the other mental health professionals who provide therapy, including counselors, art therapists and music therapists.

Finances

Consider how you might afford services. Sadly, mental health care parity is still a work in progress in most communities. Some services are more accessible than others and some have significant wait times. Most of these funding sources are also a source of referrals and therapists’ contact information.

  • OHIP – Covers only services by physicians, including psychiatrists. A referral from your family doctor or other physician is required.
  • Services provided by government and community agencies.  These are often free or low cost.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – This is an agency that has a partnership with your employer. EAPs typically have in-house therapists, and usually offer a limited number of free or low-cost therapy sessions (3-6). There is rarely a wait, so you can begin services quickly. EAPs usually keep records private from your employer, but ask if you have concerns. You may need to contact your human resources department to get you EAP contact information. EAP can also provide you with referrals after your short term services are complete.
  • Supplemental Insurance – This is the insurance provided by your employer. Most provide some mental health coverage. Some cover only psychologists, while others cover a wide range of mental health professionals. It is a good idea to call your insurance before calling therapists, to know how much coverage you have per session and per year. This will help you and your therapist plan treatment that meets your ability to participate. Your insurance can also provide you with referrals for qualified professionals.

Fit

Therapists are people. We all have our own personalities, voices, styles, and approaches. You deserve to work with a therapist that feels right. You do not have to know why it feels right. Be wary of discounting a therapist based on superficial factors. In your first meetings, focus on what works and does not work for you.  Do you feel understood? Do they provide the right ratio of listening and talking for you? If you feel you do not have a good fit, discuss this with your therapist and ask them to help you find a better fit. This can be a difficult discussion, but one worth having. In many cases, the therapist can address your concerns and even change their clinical approach to match your needs.

Convenience

Many of my clients enjoy the flexibility of online and evening sessions.  It fits with their other responsibilities. They avoid a commute and parking.  They rarely need to miss a session.  For many others, a trek downtown to an office would be a break from their screens and home.

Select a therapist that fits well with your needs and routine.  This helps you to make it a healthy habit.  If you choose a therapist who is inconvenient for you, you will dread going. Worse, you may develop a resistance to the process or the therapist. Do your best to find a therapist with a location and times that work for you.