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Finding and selecting a good therapist is an important step in the process of seeking mental health care. A good therapist can provide support, guidance, and a safe and confidential space to work through difficult emotions and experiences.

Where to start?

So, how do you go about selecting a good therapist? Here are a few tips to get you started:

Determine your needs: Before you begin the process of selecting a therapist, it is important to identify your specific needs and goals for therapy. This can help you narrow your search and find a therapist who is a good fit for you.

Research potential therapists: Look for therapists who have experience and training in the areas you are seeking help with. Many therapists list their areas of expertise and experience on their websites or profiles.

Consider your preferences: Think about what you are looking for in a therapist, such as their approach to treatment, their availability, and their location.

Check credentials: Make sure that the therapist you are considering is licensed and qualified to practice in your state. You can check their credentials by looking for their license number or by contacting your state’s licensing board.

Schedule a consultation: Many therapists offer a consultation or initial session to allow you to get to know them and determine if they are a good fit for you. Take advantage of this opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of their approach to treatment.

Here are a few questions you might want to ask a prospective therapist:

What is your approach to treatment?

What is your experience and training in the area I am seeking help with?

How do you typically work with clients?

How long do you usually work with clients?

Southeast Psych Nashville has therapists who serve a wide range of age groups and issues. You can review each therapist’s bio on our team page to help you decide. If you are still not sure, most therapists offer a free 15-minute meet-and-greet to give you a sense of their personality, style, and approach. Our client coordinators can also advise you on which therapist might be best for you or your loved one. To get started, call 615-373-9955.

As we kick off a new year, many of us are thinking about our resolutions and how we can make this year better than the last. One tool that can be helpful in setting and achieving your goals is the SMART criteria. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Using these criteria can help you create well-defined goals that are more likely to be successful.

Here’s how to use the SMART goals for the new year:

Specific: Be clear and specific about what you want to accomplish. Instead of setting a vague goal like “lose weight,” try setting a specific goal like “lose 10 pounds by March 1st by exercising at least 3 times per week and eating a balanced diet.”

Measurable: Make sure your goal can be measured so you can track your progress. In the example above, the goal is measurable because it includes a specific weight loss target and specific actions to take.

Achievable: Choose a goal that is realistic and achievable given your current resources and constraints. Losing 10 pounds in 3 months is likely achievable for many people, but losing 100 pounds in the same time frame might not be.

Relevant: Make sure your goal is relevant to your values and priorities. Losing weight might not be a relevant goal if your primary concern is improving your mental health.

Time-bound: Set a deadline for achieving your goal to create a sense of urgency. In the example above, the deadline is March 1st.

By following the SMART criteria, you can set clear and specific goals that are more likely to be achieved. Remember to be flexible and adjust your goals as needed if you find that they are not realistic or relevant. And most importantly, don’t get discouraged if you don’t achieve your goal right away – progress takes time and effort. Keep working towards your goal and you will get there eventually.