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Other sources for referrals can be found by ads in the yellow pages, local newspapers, and other free community magazines and directories available at restaurants and shops around town. Keep in mind that these advertisements are designed to catch your attention and do not necessarily provide any assurance that the person is qualified, experienced or reputable. Attending public presentations or workshops by therapists is another way to get introduced and learn about one's personality or practice style. Psychotherapy referral services may appear to be a good way to get referrals, but they typically only give out names of therapists who have paid a marketing fee to the company or get a commission for making the referral. If you call an agency or large group practice for a referral, you may be assigned to a therapist solely on the basis of who has an opening in their schedule. If you have selected a health insurance plan which limits you to seeking treatment only from an "in network" provider, you may get referred to a therapist selected solely because their zip code location is nearest to yours. You may also find that that therapist in the provider network is severely restricted to the kind and amount of therapy covered under your insurance policy. After asking around, you may find that the same person is recommended from several different sources of referrals. That may be a good sign that you have found someone competent. But, are they compatible? Regardless of which method you ultimately use to get a particular therapist's name, it is essential to follow up with a personal interview. Only then can you better assess for yourself if working with this person is right for you. |
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