If you are considering going into therapy or seeking counselling in Calgary, the psychologist you choose is one of the most important and personal decisions you’ll make. The right psychologist is one you feel comfortable opening up to, sharing personal details with, and speaking to about some uncomfortable topics.
If you don’t feel connected to your psychologist, you likely won’t be able to share your deepest thoughts and feelings. Consequently, you may not truly get to the heart of the matter and build the confidence you need to create positive change.
The question is – where do you start? How do you choose the right therapist that you feel connected to? Here are some of our tips for finding the right psychologist in Calgary.
Use a Reliable Source
If you google “therapy in Calgary” or “counselling in Calgary”, you’ll get thousands of search results. While it’s great to have plenty of options to choose from, it can also be overwhelming. And unlike looking for a new dentist or chiropractor, family and friends aren’t as inclined to recommend their own psychologist – for personal reasons, of course.
One of the best ways to find a good psychologist is through a network or directory of registered psychologists. AFP is Calgary’s original cooperative of professional psychologists. You can choose one on your own or allow us to help you find the right fit.
Meet and Interview Different Psychologists
When you meet and interview different psychologists, pay attention to how they respond to your questions. Do they welcome your questions and answer them in ways that you feel understood? Do they show an interest in getting to know you and your goals with therapy? Meeting and interviewing different psychologists is one of the most important steps in finding the right one.
Here are some good questions to ask your potential psychologist:
- How long have you been practicing?
- What licenses and certifications do you have?
- Can you describe your ideal patient?
- What types of therapy do you specialize in?
- What is your strength as a psychologist?
- What is your approach like?
- What can I expect with our sessions?
- What do you consider a successful session?
Take Your Time
You will spend many hours with your psychologist over the coming weeks, months, and even years discussing some very personal and sometimes uncomfortable feelings. At times, you’ll feel very vulnerable, which highlights the importance of finding a psychologist with whom you feel at ease and safe to express your true feelings.
When looking for a psychologist, don’t rush. A good match and a strong rapport are just as important as the manner of the treatment itself. The person who you work with can determine how you experience therapy and the success of treatment.
