IHSTS - Ep. 02 - How to Pick the Right Therapist

Not all therapists are created equal—and that's not just about skill level. In this episode, Megan breaks down how to find the RIGHT therapist for YOUR journey. From checking credentials to spotting red flags, this conversation arms you with the questions you need to ask before committing to treatment.Join Megan and producer Brian as they discuss the therapeutic relationship, why your therapist shouldn't be your bestie, the "base camp" concept for measuring progress, and the most important question you should ask in your first session.Key Timestamps[00:47] Intro: Finding Your Match[01:53] Credentials 101: Who Can Actually Call Themselves a Therapist?[04:49] Art Therapy Misconceptions[09:17] Red Flags: When Your Therapist Makes It About Them[13:03] The Therapeutic Relationship vs. Friendship[15:30] They're Not Here to Fix You[26:03] Interview Your Therapist[34:16] The Base Camp Concept: Measuring Progress[40:58] "How Will I Know When We're Done?"[44:21] The Relationship Is What HealsStandout Quotes"You can only take people as far as you've gotten yourself.""If you can't tell your therapist why you came within 3-4 sessions, that's a red flag.""Success isn't measured through happiness. It's about how we're sitting with things, integrating parts of our life instead of pushing them away."Therapist's Toolkit5 Questions to Ask Your Therapist:What is your license number? (Verify it online) for IL: https://online-dfpr.micropact.com/Lookup/LicenseLookup.aspxDo you have specialized training or experience with [my specific concern]?Do you go to therapy yourself?How will I know when we're done?What should I expect from our first few sessions?A More Thorough list of questionshttps://www.canva.com/design/DAHA3KUDc-k/Z_LvH6pMN2Vsg2xHCKW1Ng/edit?utm_content=DAHA3KUDc-k&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebuttonResourcesCrisis Support988 - Suicide Prevention LifelineText HOME to 741741 - Crisis Text LineFind a Therapist:Psychology Today | SAMHSA Treatment LocatorVerify Credentials:Check your state's professional licensing board websiteConnect With UsHave a topic you want us to cover? Questions about boundaries or other mental health topics? We'd love to hear from you!Submit topic ideas: [email protected] us: instagram: @ihavesh_ttosay    Tiktoc: IHaveSh_tToSayYouTube: www.youtube.com/@ihavesh_ttosayRate & Review: Help others find the podcast by leaving a reviewCreditsPodcast Host: Megan Campbell, LCPC, ATR-BCPodcast Executive Producer: Brian T PrairiePodcast Operations Manager: MacKenzie CloyNew episodes drop every two weeks on Tuesday mornings at 6 am. Subscribe so you never miss an episode!Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. If you're in crisis or need personalized support, please contact a licensed mental health professional.