I’ve realized therapy is incredibly therapeutic.
-Lisa Schroeder

So, you’re ready to start therapy. You’ve heard great reviews about this online video counseling thing, and you’re wondering how to find a great therapist of your own. Read on to find out how:

• State-By-State- First, the way the therapy licensing laws are currently set up, therapists can only see clients who are physically in the state where they are licensed. (Hopefully this will be a nationalized license in the future, but this is how it’s set up as of 2019).
• Social Media- This can be a great place to find a therapist you resonate with based on their posts, blogs, etc. Just be sure to verify that they are licensed in your state. Shameless plug, I’m on Facebook  and Instagram.
• Directories- I had a client compare these to a dating app but for finding a therapist. Funny, but also kind of true. You can search by your zip code and then check the therapist profiles you like to see if they offer online therapy services or only in office sessions. This can be a little overwhelming depending on the number of therapists listed in your area. For reference, I have a profile on Psychology Today.
• Ask Your Local Doctor- Doctors often know about local therapists and their specialties. Ask them who they’d recommend in the area offering online video counseling.
• Word of Mouth- Your friends, family, coworkers, etc. may know of someone great in your area or state. Ask someone you trust, as it can be hard to tell others that you’re in need of some extra support in your life right now.
• Podcasts- Therapy related podcasts often feature therapist from different states to share their knowledge and expertise. If you like what they have to say, this may be the therapist for you. There’s a great podcast on perinatal mental health called Mom and Mind that I highly recommend checking out.
• Join their mailing list- You may not be ready to start therapy quite yet, but if you’re still deciding on which therapist is right for you, consider receiving their newsletter to see if their content resonates with you. (You can join my mailing list at the bottom of my home page)
• Once you’ve made your therapist choice, start with a free phone call or video chat. This is to ensure that you really connect with one another before you schedule your initial session together.

Good luck with your therapist search. I hope you find someone you connect with and who you enjoy working with as well!