Finding the right “fit” with a psychologist.
When you go to buy a pair of jeans it is normal to try on a few pairs before you find the right fit. The first few you try on may be uncomfortable, too tight, loose, or just don’t sit right but you know when you find the pair that fit the best. Similar to when you buy a pair of jeans, we sometimes need to spend some time finding a psychologist who fits the best for us.
It is important to keep in mind that for many people seeing a psychologist is not an enjoyable experience. It is often a time when things are not going well for us, and psychology sessions are a space we use to start addressing what is going on in our lives. As such, psychology appointments are not always going to feel comfortable or easy, but it is still important that you find a psychologist who helps you to feel safe within the therapy space to achieve results.
A good therapeutic relationship should include the following:
1) You are given space to ask questions, and speak honestly (i.e., your clinician asks you to discuss/do something you know you are not ready to discuss/do - you can say no!) 2) Your therapist explains the treatment plan and the reasoning for using that method 3) Your therapist does not make the session about themselves – it is normal for some clinicians to make some personal disclosures when it may be helpful but it is important that the focus of the session is on you, you’re the one paying for the service. If at any time you feel as though you are counselling your psychologist or feel like you need to hold something back so you do not upset your psychologist, it may be time to seek alternative support. 4) You work with your psychologist to create and address shared goals.
Within the field of psychology, there are a number of different evidence-based treatments available and psychologists tend to have a treatment method that they prefer to use. In some instances, it may be that their method of treatment or way of addressing psychological issues just isn’t the right fit for you. In the case where you do not feel it is the right fit, it is absolutely within your right to seek alternative support and to ask your therapist if they have any recommendations.
Seeing a psychologist is an investment in your well-being and you want to make sure that your investment pays off. This means that you may need to try out different psychologists until you find the right fit.
Content by: Courtney Lander
Disclaimer: This document is for information purposes only and is not specifically tailored intervention or treatment. It may not be appropriate for ones personal mental health needs or for use in crisis situations. Should you or someone you know be experiencing a crisis, before making use of such information, please consult with your GP, mental health professional or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
