How to Find a Psychologist That’s Right for You
If you’re looking for a psychologist, it’s important to remember that one size does not fit all! Geo Psychological Testing has compiled a list of tips for finding a psychologist that’s right for you:
Identify your needs
Many psychologists specialize in specific types of therapy or psychological testing. Therefore, it is important to identify your needs before conducting research. Why are you looking to see a psychologist? Do you need guidance in processing unresolved trauma? Are you experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder? Are you struggling to perform at school or work and not sure why? Would you prefer a male or female psychologist? Are you looking for a bilingual psychologist?
If you can identify your needs, you will be able to narrow your selection down to psychologists who specialize in your area of concern.
Determine your budget
Therapy and psychological testing can be expensive. Therefore, it is important that you determine what your budget is before proceeding. What can you afford to pay? Do you have insurance and who is your provider? Many psychologists accept insurance, but it is not guaranteed that they accept insurance with your provider. Therefore, it is important to keep these details in mind as you begin your research.
Research
Now that you have identified your needs and gotten your finances in order, you can begin researching psychologists in your area. Now is the time to refer back to your list of needs and budget. If you believe your child may have ADHD, you might consider searching for “ADHD testing near me” or “child psychologists near me.” Look at their websites, testimonials, credentials, and experience. Don’t forget to look for hourly rates and if they accept insurance!
Schedule consultations
Once you have found a few psychologists you like, start making phone calls! Inquire about their services and expertise, confirm hourly rates, and ask about their methods/practices. If they check off all the boxes, it’s time to schedule a consultation.
Scheduling consultations with a few psychologists allows you to get a feel for who they are as professionals and whether they will be a good fit for you or your child. Scheduling several consultations can be costly, but is well worth it to find a psychologist who can provide the answers you’ve been seeking.
Dr. Geo-Anna Hirshenbaum is a bilingual psychologist (English and Spanish) whose focus is on conducting psychological evaluations for all age groups. She has been administering assessments for over ten years and has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population. Interested in learning more about the services we offer at Geo Psychological Testing? Contact us today!
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