Beyond do you take my insurance? What else do I need to know?
You have decided to seek therapy for yourself or a loved-one. The first question many ask is “Do you take my insurance?” However, it might need to be the last question if one at all, because understanding what therapy involves, how to choose the right therapist, and what you can do to make the most of your therapeutic experience may be a more important. Therapy is not just a service; it’s a partnership that can lead to profound personal growth and healing. Here are some key points to consider beyond the question of insurance:
#1. Experience Matters
How long has the provider been practicing? Are they licensed or do they have a certificate? Experience matters—simply having credentials does not make them the correct fit for each age group and each challenge. Has the provider continued their education beyond obtaining a master’s degree? Do they have training in specialty in areas like trauma, addiction, or relationship problems? If you have a particular concern, seeking a therapist with relevant experience can be crucial to your success in therapy.
#2. Therapeutic Approaches and Specializations
Therapists often specialize in different therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or mindfulness-based therapy, among others. Each approach has its strengths depending on the issues you’re facing. Can they utilize the approach that is most appropriate for you? Don’t be fooled by “modality therapy.” It’s great for advertising and making it sound like a certain type of therapy will be the quick fix. But you and your experiences are rarely simple and may require more than a singular approach.
#3. Therapist-Client Fit
The relationship between you and your therapist is a key factor for the success of therapy. A good fit means that you feel comfortable, understood, and respected. This therapeutic alliance is built on trust and mutual respect. It’s essential to feel that your therapist is someone you can be open with, without fear of judgment. During your initial sessions, pay attention to how the therapist makes you feel—are they empathetic, do they listen well, and do you feel supported? Are they offering any guidance or just listening? Trust your instincts when assessing whether a therapist is right for you.
#4. Your Role in Therapy
Therapy is not a passive experience. Your active participation is crucial to its success. This means being open and honest about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It also
involves a willingness to explore uncomfortable topics and working on the issues outside of the therapy office. Setting goals for what you hope to achieve in therapy can provide direction and focus. Be prepared to engage with the process and commit to the work it requires.
#5. Understanding the Process
Therapy is a process that unfolds over time. Progress can sometimes be slow or uneven. It’s normal to experience ups and downs throughout therapy. Patience is important, as change often requires consistent effort and time. Regularly reviewing your progress with your therapist can help you stay motivated and make necessary adjustments to your goals or approaches.
#6. Practical Considerations
Notwithstanding insurance, consider practical aspects like the therapist’s location, availability, and fees. Do they see many clients in a day? Do they only work remotely? Therapy is a significant commitment and logistics can impact your ability to attend sessions regularly. Make sure that these practical elements align with your life circumstances to ensure consistency in your therapeutic journey.
Therapy is a complex and deeply personal experience that involves more than just taking your insurance. The logistics of credentialling, experience, therapeutic approaches, right clinical fit, your participation, being patient with the process, and addressing practical considerations are all vital to making the most of therapy. When these elements come together, therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.
If you or a loved one are looking for help, contact Insight at and let us assist you on your therapy journey with the appropriate clinician.
