Searching On-Line for a Therapist?

Every therapist brings their own philosophy of therapy to their work. But just as importantly, they bring their own "self" through which this philosophy is filtered. That "self" is critical to a good therapy match. Unfortunately, that "self" is rarely revealed in a web site. Yes, credentials and experience are important. But as a therapy consumer, I would also want to know what my therapist is like. What issues is s/he sensitive to? Is s/he bright? How "deep" is s/he? How much world experience does s/he bring to the therapy office as opposed to book knowledge? How realistic is s/he? Is s/he pompous or self important? Will s/he be able to sit with me through my blackest moods? Will s/he be honest with me or hide behind a therapist persona? Does s/he have children? (Perhaps the best way of evaluating a new therapist would be to spend an hour with their children!) Does s/he know what it's really like to raise adolescents? How about stepchildren (if this is relevant)? Does s/he have experience with the death of a loved one? Has s/he had enough pain and loss in their life to really know what I'm talking about?

If a therapist is willing to be revealing, a web site offers people an excellent opportunity to "pre-screen" potential candidates. I think all therapists should put them up. Of course, constructing a site that reveals yourself is risky business. If my therapist had revealed himself in this way, I never would have chosen him (see Dreams, Imagined Dreams: Failed Therapy) Indeed, at most therapist sites, the person is hidden behind a sea of credentials, slick graphics, etc. These sites cry out: "I am professional." But being "professional" does not, by itself, make a good therapist. Good therapy is an endeavor that involves two human beings, and the client will and should over time discover who the therapist is. A good web site can help begin this process.

Certainly, perusing a site is no substitute for a face to face meeting, but it can be an excellent first step in determining whether a good match can be made.

Good luck in your search.