Once we find a therapist, we can call and request a phone consultation with them. Keep in mind that we may call and leave messages with several providers but only hear back from a few. (Therapists can be crappy this way.)
During the phone
consult:
·
Briefly explain why we are seeking therapy
·
Ask what experience they have treating clients like us
· Ask if they are trained in evidence-based treatments for PTSD/Moral Injury
This may sound like, “I’m trying to cope with the trauma and fallout of my abusive marriage. What kind of treatment do you use for PTSD?”
If the therapist does not have training in an evidence-based treatment for PTSD, ask them if they can recommend someone who does.
Next, we’ll make our first appointment. It’s okay to feel nervous; in this first session, we are getting to know the therapist and trying to determine if it is a relationship that will last.
It also might not be. Not all therapists are compatible with all clients, and that’s okay. The relationship between a client and their therapist is important; we need to feel a sense of trust with our therapist in order to improve.
Some therapists are unprofessional or simply not good at their jobs. We’re not trying to be ugly; it is what it is. If you don’t click with your therapist, it’s not necessarily you. Keep looking - there is excellent advice online about how to choose the best therapist.
Having a therapist we can trust is an
important cornerstone for our social support network and is vital to our
recovery.
Do you know other ideas? If so, please reach out and let folks know on our Community Facebook Page.
*****
“If you believe change is possible, you want to change, and you are willing to do the work, you absolutely CAN get your life back.”
Get your copy of The Soldier's Guide to PTSD, The Soldier's Workbook,
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