Psychologists in New York can help with a wide range of issues. They go through years of training and often have specialty areas. However, they also tend to charge the highest fees.
The path to psychologist New York licensure is a rigorous one that requires extensive education, training, and experience. But the commitment is often rewarded with a broad range of fulfilling and well-compensated career options.
1. Know Your Needs
The first step in choosing a psychologist New York is knowing what you need. Identifying your needs is the best way to find a therapist that can help you meet them healthily. People who are good at identifying their needs often find it easier to get them met in life.
Depending on the type of therapy you are looking for, there is a wide range of therapists in New York City to choose from. Some therapists have a specific focus, such as behavioral therapy (which helps patients change negative thoughts and behaviors) while others have a broader scope of practice, such as psychoanalysts.
It is important to note that the path to becoming a psychologist can take a few years or more, including attending school for a doctoral degree and fulfilling pre-doctoral supervised practice. It is also important to know that out-of-state therapists may be able to work with New York residents under a limited permit, provided they have passed the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) or equivalent exam and fulfilled supervised experience requirements.
2. Ask for Referrals
A client’s friends and family members are a great source of referrals. They are familiar with the client’s struggles and can offer valuable insight. They may also be able to connect the client with an experienced psychologist in New York. Another good resource is an employer’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
When asking clients for referrals, it’s important to be specific and personalize your request. A general “Do you know anyone who could benefit from our services?” will usually result in a reluctance to give a recommendation. Instead, ask for a specific person and explain how their unique situation may be best suited to your practice.
It’s also important to make the process as easy for your clients as possible. Send them a well-formatted list of your services, rates, and contact information so that all they have to do is forward it on. This will help them feel more comfortable giving you a referral. Additionally, you should always thank your clients for their support, even after a project is completed. This can be done through a phone call, email, or handwritten note.
3. Look for a Therapist with a Specialty
Therapists in New York can help people with a wide variety of mental health issues. Some specialize in treating specific conditions, like anxiety or depression, while others focus on a particular treatment approach, such as cognitive therapy or insight-oriented psychodynamic therapy.
Many therapists have a website that lists their areas of expertise and their practice style. Check out their website to get a better sense of whether they might be the right fit for you. Some therapists also offer online sessions, so you can choose from a wider range of therapists and meet them from the comfort of your own home or office.
It’s also worth reaching out to other trusted professionals that you trust for referrals. Doctors, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare providers may have therapists in their networks that they can recommend. School guidance counselors or college counseling centers can also be a great resource for finding LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and culturally humble therapists in your area. They might also be able to refer you to a therapist that accepts your insurance or offers sliding-scale fees or payment plans.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Shop Around
Licensed Psychologists in New York are highly trained and experienced professionals who use scientifically validated methods to change your feelings and behaviors. They can also help you find healthy, effective ways to cope with life’s challenges.
In some cases, shopping becomes a compulsive behavior when it triggers anxiety or other emotions. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as financial and body insecurities. Some people may even experience a sense of loss or failure when they are unable to control their shopping habits. This is called shopping addiction or pathological buying.
Psychologist: Psychologists have the most extensive training and can help with a variety of psychological issues. However, they tend to charge the highest fees. Licensed Mental Health Counselor: LMHCs have less extensive training but can still treat most emotional and family issues. They can also administer a limited number of psychological tests. They are a good choice if you are seeking a more affordable option. You can easily find an LMHC by searching online. Many sites will list therapists by specialty and location.
5. Be Honest
In a relationship, honesty is key to building trust. However, not everyone knows how to express their truth in a way that others can receive it. Sometimes, it can be better to stay silent in situations where being honest would cause conflict.
For example, if your friend wants to know if Santa Claus exists and you think it will ruin their childhood, it may be better to deflect the question rather than lie. Lying in the long run will eventually come back to haunt you and can damage a good relationship.
Ultimately, it is important to be honest with yourself as well as your friends and family. This includes being aware of what you enjoy, what you don’t, and how your current situation makes you feel. If you often complain about your job, but don’t take action to find a new one, you need to be honest with yourself and admit that you’re not happy. In the same vein, if you love to talk about how much you hate your ex-husband, it’s time to be honest with yourself and stop pretending.