It can be hard to find the right psychotherapist for anything. It can be particularly hard for PTSD. Not all therapists are trained to treat it.
Finding the right person for you can take time. But there are some ways you can speed up the process by being prepared.
Here are some tips to help you find the right psychotherapist.
1. Do Research
Don’t just go to the first therapist who shows up on your list.
Filter your searches. You can find therapists through an online database. Or you can check out the websites of local clinics.
If you feel comfortable, ask friends. Maybe ask one who is a therapist.
Even if they don’t know someone personally, they can point you in the right direction. Most therapists will list their specialties on their websites.
There might not be one who specializes in PTSD in your area.
Teletherapy is a good option when you can’t find someone in person. Some people even feel more comfortable when they’re talking online. Do whatever feels most comfortable for you.
Normally it isn’t that hard to find therapists who treat PTSD.
2. Try Cannabis
You might need help before your session.
Or you might need something to help you relax between sessions. Cannabis has been proven to help treat PTSD.
PTSD is only one of the many conditions that cannabis can treat. Other mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are also treatable with cannabis. Many of these issues can occur at the same time.
Cannabis is a plant that occurs in nature. That means it’s more natural than any prescription medication. It’s far safer, too.
As with anything in life, marijuana should be consumed in moderation.
There is no way to know how your body will react. It’s important to take things easy the first time you try it out.
If you don’t want to get high, try out CBD products. They can still help calm you down when you’re feeling anxious.
Always buy cannabis from a dispensary. That’s the only way you can ensure that you’re getting a high-quality product that is safe.
See about getting a prescription for medical marijuana. Your doctor can then direct you to a good dispensary near you.
They can also advise on proper dosage and usage.
3. See Multiple Therapists
You won’t always get along with your first match.
It can be hard to find the right person who is a good fit for you.
You might need to try multiple therapists before finding one you like. Be open about the fact that you are trying different options.
A good therapist won’t mind. In fact, they might even have some recommendations for you. There might be another issue you need treated.
In this case, it can be beneficial to visit multiple therapists at the same time.
Getting to know your therapist takes time. If things don’t go well during the first session, try at least a few more times.
4. Work on Yourself
Treatment isn’t just up to the therapist.
You’ll have to do some of the hard work, too. This isn’t always fun, especially in the case of PTSD. You will have to face negative emotions.
There are safe ways you can do this. Meditating for PTSD is extremely helpful.
Look for a creative way to express what you’ve gone through. You don’t need to share this artwork with anyone else. The important thing is that it helps.
Keep a journal about your emotions. You will start to discover patterns.
Talk about what you’re going through with loved ones. They can help.
5. Keep Trying
Don’t get discouraged.
Recovery is a process and a journey.
It can take years of therapy to treat PTSD. It might be something that you have to live with for the rest of your life.
The important thing is to keep going. There’s no reason why PTSD should define you. Seeking out help is an important part of recovery.
The fact that you are looking for a therapist is a good sign. Most people don’t seek out help. You’re already ahead of them.
Conclusion
Living with PTSD isn’t easy. Therapy can be a life-changing and positive process. But finding the right therapist can take time.
