A Guide For Choosing A Psychologist Pasadena CA

By Gregory Long


At some point in life, a person might feel overwhelmed by sadness or feel helpless for a long time. Such things can lead to mental conditions making someone unable to perform the daily activities or stay anxious. Getting a psychotherapist can be helpful. However, not every patient can be treated by an expert. Below are the steps to follow when choosing a psychologist Pasadena CA.

First, to find the right psychologist, talk to your physician or any other health professional who knows your health history. Visit or call a local psychological association for references. If you have a community mental health care facility, you can contact them for suggestions. Family or friends who have undergone psychotherapy successfully can also be a good source of recommendations. Always ensure that these sources are trustworthy.

Having gotten the contacts, you know where to start. Call everyone on your list and talk. If they are busy or if the information you need cannot be given over the phone, you can schedule a visit. Check around their office to see if they have certificates or licenses on the wall showing that they are qualified to practice. Questions can also be asked over the phone or during the interview about the certification and experience of the person.

The other pointer is setting your expectations. Therapists do not make the pain disappear or remove the people that cause you problems in your life. They will also not bring back your dead loved one. All they can do is give you hope and be supportive listeners. In the process, you will have the guidance you need to approach problems in a better way, control your emotions and feelings or make complete changes in the way you think or feel.

Every patient that walks in the door of a therapist has an issue that is not similar to that of the other patient. You, therefore, need to identify the problem that has overwhelmed you to the extent of seeking help. Maybe you have been unable to face life difficulties or you cannot control your emotions and behaviors.

Similarly, check the website of the psychologist for reviews and feedbacks. If they are not available, you should request for a reference list of customers who have a problem similar to the one you have. Contact these patients and get feedback about their experience throughout the treatment process. If there are any comments from customers on the website, read them up. Select an expert if only these testimonies or reviews are positive.

Additionally, when it comes to the issue of payments, you should check if the type of health assurance you have is accepted by the expert. Some accept direct billing while others will prefer billing from the insurance company. Talk to your healthcare insurer to see if they are affiliated with the expert. If the insurer does not cover mental health, you will pay from your pocket.

In conclusion, check the expertise of the professional before making the final decision. Some specialize in handling children, families, and others on adults. If you need psychotherapy alone and you go to a family psychologist, you might not see a lot of improvements.




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