Finding a therapist or counselor can be a daunting task. Often times, one is provided a list of people to contact and within a short phone call, you have to make a decision as to whether you will choose this person or that person.

I encourage you to take your time. Remember, you are the one paying for the service. Even if you are in crisis, it is okay to pause for a moment and if needed, ask your friends, family and those you trust to help you make the decision.

You have the right, as you seek therapy, to ask questions of the counselor or therapist you may potentially work with. It is often a good idea to take a moment and write down what things you would like to know or hear the counselor say prior to making your phone call. And please know that if you decide not to work with someone simply because of the way their voice sounds, that is okay!

Some things that you might want to consider are:

• Do I want a male or female therapist/counselor
• Is the office location one I can get to
• Do I experience this therapist/counselor as responsive and flexible
• Is the therapist/counselor culturally right for me

Asking yourself these questions and more are important but most important of all is asking yourself if you are ready to make youself a priority. There are many excuses that we can make like "lack of money", "I don't have time" or "I don't really have a problem" in order to not follow through with counseling. But when we make the decision that we truly want change, when we give ourselves permission to make ourselves a priority, we stop making excuses and explore options. Many therapist are willing to work out financial issues and may be flexible in terms of meeting with you...you just have to ask.