Choosing a Good Psychologist-Tips from a seasoned psychologist

Deciding to get therapy can be a big step and choosing a great psychologist matters. Knowing the differences in education, experience, and types of approaches specific to your needs, are important factors to ensure you have a positive experience and successful outcome. When you want an experienced therapist who can help you, we have several, doctoral-level psychologists here to help you in our office in Fort Myers, Fl in person, or online with our secure video services. 

Choosing a Good Psychologist

When looking for the right psychologist for your needs, there are several factors to consider. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you prefer face-to-face in the office? If yes, are they close by for an easier commute?
• Does the psychologists' schedule match my availability? Do you need evenings or lunch hours?
• In reviewing the psychologist's bio on their website, does their approach match what you're looking for?
• Are you considering medication? Psychologists in Florida do not prescribe but coordinate treatment with several trusted psychiatrists in the area.
• Can you use health insurance or would you rather self-pay to keep your information private?
• Do you need to see a psychologist due to a current crisis situation? How soon are they available for consultation?
• Do you want the flexibility of video sessions? If yes, do you travel out of state? If your state is in blue on this map, it's approved!

In addition to offering services in person, in a convenient location, or virtual services as needed, you want a psychologist who has experience and can cater to your particular needs. 

Maybe you're going through a divorce, separation or struggling with depression, anxiety or simply wish to work through some things and understand yourself better to optimize your health, wellbeing and performance. You could be having difficulty with fertility, menopause or other physical changes occurring in life, or are experiencing family transitions such as "empty nest syndrome" and want help to find yourself again. The best psychologist for you will have experience in these areas as well as the ability to resolve your issues quickly with the highest level of education and experience. 

At Associates in Family Psychology, we have psychologists who are accredited providers of specialty services such as EMDR, a therapy that processes traumatic and distressing memories to reduce their emotional intensity and interference. We also offer Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a treatment that works with present thoughts and beliefs, ERP, a type of exposure and response prevention approach for OCD and PTSD, and Jungian psychodynamic approaches, which focus on self-awareness, understanding unconscious influences and becoming the person you are meant to be. 

How a Psychologist Can Help You

Psychologists offer invaluable support and assistance across various life transitions, encompassing a wide range of experiences such as school changes or transition to college, new relationships, managing health issues, career topics, rebuilding after divorce, coping with an empty nest, preparing for and adjusting to retirement, and navigating the challenges and benefits of aging. Psychologist can help you gain a better understanding of why you feel a certain way, how your brain and body are responding or why you make certain decisions and repeat patterns in life.

It's akin to having a personal trainer for your mind and emotions. Whether you are seeking personal growth, improved relationships, a greater sense of well-being, or cultivating a sense of purpose, psychologists provide valuable insights and strategies. 

Never underestimate the value of choosing the right psychologist for you. Psychologists have different specialties and approaches that work. At Associates in Family Psychology in Fort Myers, FL, we provide access to some of the best ones in Florida. To schedule time for online or in-person care, request an appointment to consult with one of our psychologists today by visiting our website at FamPsych.com or call us at (239) 561-9955.