When dealing with mental health challenges, it’s often recommended to seek therapy. This may create anxiety for those who have never looked into therapy before. What are some tips to help you seek a good therapist?

Deon Brown, LCPC, LCADC Clinical Therapist suggests these three things to look for when seeking a new therapist.

1. Skill level/Training/Experience
2. Culturally Sensitivity and Competency -Cognitively and Emotionally
3. Look for how open and genuine they are

Below are additional questions that you can ask your therapist at the very first visit.

Remember, like any relationship, sometimes it’s not a fit. This is not a reflection on you, nor is it stating that there is anything wrong with you or the therapist.

Other options for seeking therapy is to contact your primary doctor for help. They often have a list of providers that they have worked with and can provide a referral for.

You can also contact organizations like PGrigsby Consulting for help! Part of their mission states, “Our health and wellness team are ready to be of service to women and our community. Whether it is Health and Wellness Concierge Services or Well Women Wellness Memberships, we provide all with easy access to personalized resources, services or tools.”

Whichever route you decide to take, don’t allow fear of the unknown to prevent you from seeking help that may change your life and get you back to feeling mentally healthy again!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you or someone you know has a mental illness, is struggling emotionally, or has concerns about their mental health, there are ways to get help. Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger or go to the nearest emergency room. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255); En español 1-888-628-9454

As a Woman… is a weekly column discussing the unique challenges and solutions in health, wealth, finance, and relationships. If you would like to share in the conversation email, lharlem@pwperspective.com