How to Shop for a Therapist

Psychotherapists are like ice cream—they come in many flavors and finding the right one for you makes all the difference in your degree of satisfaction. In the state of Nevada, there are five mental health licenses: Psychiatrists (medical doctors or MD can prescribe medication), Psychologists (Ph.D.), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists (M.F.T.), and the newest license to the state is Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Certification in drug and alcohol counseling is also available (CADC).

Professional licenses are issued by the state to ensure the clinician meets the established minimum professional standards that include a minimum level of education, written and oral examinations, formal recommendations, internship(s), continuing education requirements and yearly license renewal. Licensing exists solely for the protection of the public. Licensed professionals will have their degrees, professional license(s), and business license on open display.

Once you have decided which type of professional is appropriate for your specific needs, it's time to find the right person for you. The best way to find a therapist is by referral from a friend who has had a good experience or your family physician. If your insurance provides mental health coverage, they should give you a list of approved providers and the number of sessions they are willing to fund--but be aware of the impact on your confidentiality if a third party is involved. You can also go to the Yellow Pages or the Internet for directory listings. Once you have chosen some names, call those individuals on the phone and interview them to choose the person you feel most comfortable seeing. Discuss fees, payment policies, sub-specialities, office hours and location. A good relationship with the therapist has been proven repeatedly to have the most powerful impact on the outcome of the counseling experience.