There are now over 181,600 psychologists in the US, with another 11,300 entering the workforce by 2031. While options are available, choosing the right psychologist in Tampa can feel stressful without a plan. Instead of choosing at random, use some of the tips we suggest below, as they will ensure you find a licensed psychologist based on your unique needs.
Here’s how to find the best psychologist in Tampa today.
A Glowing Reputation
Over 19% of adults in the US have received mental health treatment in the past 12 months. About 16% take prescription medication for their mental health, and another 9.5% receive counseling or therapy from a mental health professional.
Chances are, you know someone who already sees a licensed psychologist. Talk to friends and family members and ask if they can refer you to a Tampa psychologist.
If you’re not comfortable asking your inner circle for recommendations, start searching online instead.
Read online reviews for each psychologist on your list. Look for someone who already has a glowing reputation, and make sure none of the psychologists have malpractice claims against them.
Finding a professional with a glowing reputation can help you feel more comfortable in your choice.
The Right Specialty
To find the best psychologist based on your needs, look into each psychologist’s specialty. You can usually find their specialties listed on their website. For example, they might specialize in testing patients for autism or helping patients with learning disorders.
Finding someone with the right specialty will ensure you receive the most comprehensive care based on your needs.
Credentials and Experience
Check each psychologist’s credentials. Confirm they’re licensed to practice in Florida and consider where they went to school and what additional certifications they have received.
Determine how long the psychologist has practiced as well. Look for a professional with extensive experience, and if you have a specific concern, consider how often they help patients with similar needs as your own.
Review their services (individual therapy, anxiety therapy, etc.) to determine if they offer treatment based on your unique concerns.
Comfort
Try to narrow down your options to three local psychologists. Schedule a consultation with each one and prepare a list of questions you want to ask them ahead of time.
It’s important to pay attention to the psychologist’s communication style and make sure you’re comfortable around them.
After the meeting, evaluate how you feel. Does the psychologist seem like a good fit? If they do, you can take the next step by scheduling your first official appointment.
Pricing
Before making a final decision, ask each psychologist about their pricing. Don’t rush to choose the cheapest or most expensive option. Instead, compare pricing between three local psychologists and ask how they determine their pricing.
Comparing your options will help you determine the average price between similar mental health services. If one psychologist’s pricing is higher than the rest, question why.
Find a Psychologist in Tampa You Can Depend On
Choosing a psychologist in Tampa can feel stressful, especially if this is your first time seeking out a mental health professional. We suggest using these tips to simplify that process.
Above all else, choose someone you feel you can trust, as they will be there through your journey of both growing and working to improve your mental health.
Want to simplify your search? We can help.
Book a consultation today to get started.