Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task. After all, you’re putting your mental health in the hands of someone you’ve probably never met before. But fear not! With these simple tips, you’ll be able to choose a therapist and not regret it!
Tip #1: Avoid therapists who wear Hawaiian shirts to work.
It may seem like a silly thing to consider, but trust us on this one. A therapist who shows up to work wearing a Hawaiian shirt is probably more interested in sipping piña coladas on the beach than actually helping you work through your problems. And let’s be real, do you really want to take advice from someone who thinks it’s appropriate to wear a shirt covered in pineapples and flamingos?
Tip #2: Make sure your therapist knows the difference between “there,” “their,” and “they’re.”
We’re not saying your therapist needs to be a grammar expert, but if they can’t even get basic homophones right, how can you trust them to help you work through complex emotional issues? Plus, if they’re constantly using the wrong form of “your” or “its,” you might end up getting more frustrated than comforted.
Tip #3: Choose a therapist who knows the difference between “Netflix and chill” and actual therapy.
It’s important to make sure your therapist is actually there to help you, not just to catch up on the latest episodes of “Stranger Things.” While it’s great to have a therapist who can relate to pop culture references, make sure they’re not using your session time to just chat about the latest trends in TV.
Tip #4: Avoid therapists who constantly check their phones during your session.
If your therapist is more interested in scrolling through Instagram than listening to you talk about your problems, it’s time to find a new therapist. You deserve someone who is fully present and engaged during your sessions, not someone who is more interested in their latest Tinder match.
Tip #5: Make sure your therapist isn’t a plant.
This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people accidentally choose a potted plant as their therapist. Yes, plants can be great listeners, but they’re not exactly equipped to provide you with the emotional support and guidance you need. Plus, they’re not covered by your insurance.
In conclusion, choosing a therapist doesn’t have to be a scary process. Just remember to avoid therapists in Hawaiian shirts, make sure they know basic grammar, choose someone who takes your sessions seriously, avoid phone addicts, and, of course, make sure your therapist isn’t actually a plant. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to choose a therapist and not regret it!