How to Use Psychology Today to Find the Right Therapist

Finding the right therapist can be a crucial step towards achieving mental well-being. If you're on my waitlist, but need mental health therapy sooner, Psychology Today is a valuable resource. As nearly all of my clients are fellow Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians), I hear all the time that they are looking for a therapist who understands our unique cultural, spiritual, and geographic needs. This blog post will guide you step-by-step on how to use Psychology Today's website to find a therapist tailored to your specific requirements since I am currently unavailable. You may still remain on my waitlist, if youʻd like, as you search for other clinicians. You may also request to remove yourself from my waitlist at any time.

Step 1: Accessing Psychology Today

First, you'll need to access the Psychology Today website. Open your web browser and type in the following URL: www.psychologytoday.com. Once the page loads, you will see a variety of resources including articles, blogs, and links to find therapists.

"Select " 

"Enter City or Zip"

Click Search

Step 2: Navigating to the Therapist Directory

On the Psychology Today homepage, locate the "Find a Therapist" search bar. This is usually found at the top of the page. Click on it to begin your search.

Step 3: Entering Your Location

To find a therapist near you, you need to enter your geographic location. In the search bar, type your city, state, or zip code. For example, if you are in Honolulu, you can type "Honolulu, HI" or your specific zip code.

Step 4: Using Filters to Narrow Down Your Search

Once you have entered your location and initiated the search, you will be directed to a page with a list of therapists in your area. To find a therapist that fits your specific needs, use the filters provided on the left side of the page.

Geographic and Accessibility Needs

• Distance: You can set the maximum distance you are willing to travel. This is especially important if you live on one of the islands and prefer someone close by.
• Online Therapy: If travel is an issue or you prefer remote sessions, check the box for therapists who offer online therapy.

Specialty and Issue

• Issues: Click on the "Issues" filter to see a dropdown list of specific mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, etc. Select the issues that are most relevant to you.

Types of Therapy

• Approach: Under the "Types of Therapy" filter, you can select the therapeutic approaches you are interested in, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), or holistic approaches that may align with your cultural or spiritual beliefs.

Insurance and Financial Considerations

• Insurance: Use the "Insurance" filter to select your insurance provider. This will show therapists who accept your insurance, making therapy more affordable.
• Price Range: If you do not have insurance or prefer to pay out-of-pocket, use the "Price Range" filter to find therapists within your budget.

Cultural and Spiritual Needs

• Ethnicity and Language: To find a therapist who understands your cultural background, use the "Ethnicity Served" and "Language" filters. Look for therapists who are knowledgeable about Native Hawaiian culture or who speak ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi if that is important to you.
• Faith: If you are looking for a therapist who incorporates spirituality or specific religious beliefs into their practice, use the "Faith" filter.

Step 5: Reviewing Therapist Profiles

Once you have applied your filters, review the profiles of the therapists that appear in your search results. Each profile typically includes:

• Photo and Name: This helps you put a face to the name and get a sense of the therapist.
• Qualifications: Information about their education, certifications, and licenses.
• Specialties: A summary of the issues they specialize in.
• Therapeutic Approach: Details about their therapy style and methods.
• Contact Information: How to get in touch with them to ask questions or schedule an appointment.
• Client Reviews: Some profiles may include reviews from past or current clients.

Step 6: Making Contact

After reviewing profiles, select a few therapists that seem like a good fit. Contact them via phone or email to ask any additional questions you may have. It can be helpful to prepare a list of questions such as:

• What is your experience working with Native Hawaiian clients?
• Do you integrate cultural and spiritual practices into your therapy?
• What are your fees, and do you offer sliding scale options?
• What is your availability for new clients?

Step 7: Initial Consultation

Many therapists offer an initial consultation, either free or at a reduced rate. This is a great opportunity to see if you feel comfortable with the therapist and if their approach aligns with your needs. During this consultation, pay attention to how the therapist makes you feel and whether you believe you can build a trusting relationship with them.

Step 8: Making Your Decision

After meeting with potential therapists, take some time to reflect on your experiences. Consider factors such as:

• Your comfort level with the therapist.
• Their understanding of your cultural and spiritual needs.
• Their approach to therapy and whether it aligns with your preferences.
• Practical considerations such as location, cost, and availability.

Once you have weighed all these factors, make your decision and schedule your first full session.

Finding the right therapist is a personal and sometimes challenging journey, but with the resources available on Psychology Today, you can find a professional who meets your unique needs. By following these steps, you can navigate the website effectively and filter your search to find a therapist who understands and respects your cultural and spiritual background, fits your geographic location, and aligns with your financial situation.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking the time to find the right therapist can make a significant difference in your mental health journey. Whether you are looking for someone who integrates Native Hawaiian cultural practices into their therapy or someone who can provide online sessions, Psychology Today can help you find the right match.

We hope this guide helps you find the support you need. Remember, you are not alone, and the right therapist can be a valuable ally on your path to mental and emotional well-being.

Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.