Finding a therapist, counselor, or psychologist in Colorado
The Challenge of Finding the Right Therapist
Looking for a therapist can feel overwhelming. A quick Google search for "find a therapist in Colorado" pulls up millions of results—who has time to sift through all that? And even when you do reach out, it can be frustrating to find someone who’s a good fit and actually has availability.
I get it—it’s tough. But I want to help you navigate the process and find the support you deserve. Here are some tips to make the search easier.
Just ask
You know people. And the people you know know people. Chances are, the people you already talk to either have been to therapy or know someone who has. So, asking around can be a good place to start your search for a therapist. If you are feeling vulnerable about seeking therapy, talk to a close friend or your doctor. (Also, know that you are not alone. One in five adults seek therapy each year.)
Seeking recommendations from a trusted source is a great way to start your search, because you can get a sense of what to expect before you make a call or Google search. I love it when clients refer friends or family members to me. Because they already know something about the way I help, our work together begins with a sense of ease and familiarity.
If you have a trusted friend who has been to therapy, you might ask:
What did you find most helpful in therapy?
What was it like to be “in the room” (or online) with your therapist?
In-person or Online
Another consideration when choosing a therapist is where therapy will take place. Traditionally, therapy has happened in a provider’s office. However, technology has made it possible to access therapy from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a phone or internet connection. Both in-person and online therapy can be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. Which is right for you?
Online therapy offers the convenience and comfort of being able to receive therapy from your home or office. No commuting. No chance of running into your boss in the waiting room. (Yes, that has happened to me.) If you have a private space and a good internet connection, online therapy can be a great choice. Online therapy also allows you to access providers from across the state, rather than being limited to the therapists in your community.
In-person therapy is a good choice if you are able to find a compatible therapist in your area. Some clients need to meet in person because they lack privacy, safety, or internet access at home. Some people also feel more connected in a traditional therapy setting.
Fees and Insurance
Understanding what therapy will cost and how you will pay for it are important elements in your search for the best therapist for you. Fees for therapy are paid for either by the client, medical insurance, or a combination of both.
If you have insurance, and would like to use it to pay for therapy, I suggest starting by understanding what your insurance covers. Depending on your plan you may have copays or deductibles that you are responsible for paying. You may need a referral from your doctor before beginning therapy or be limited to a certain number of sessions. You also may need to select a therapist from a list of “in-network” providers. Your insurance plan should be able to provide you with this information.
If you do not plan to use insurance to pay for therapy, you are free to select the therapist of your choice without externally imposed restrictions. In this case, you will be responsible for paying the therapist’s fee. Therapists’ fees generally fall in the range of $100-200 per session. Many therapists offer a sliding scale for clients who could not otherwise afford therapy. Open Path Psychotherapy Collective is a nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health care—at a steeply reduced rate—to clients in need. This is a great resource if you need to find a therapist with a sliding scale.
Therapy is an investment in yourself that can lead to healing trauma, improving mood, and feeling more empowered and confident in yourself.
Finding the right fit
Beyond cost and location, the right therapist should be someone you feel comfortable with. Many therapists offer free initial consultations, allowing you to get a sense of their style and approach. During this call, you can ask:
What experience do you have working with my specific concerns?
What’s your approach to therapy?
How often do you typically meet with clients?
Trust your instincts—feeling safe and understood is crucial for therapy to be effective.
Ready to get started? Let’s talk
Finding a therapist in Colorado doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore your options, whether you’re looking for support with anxiety, trauma, or depression.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Contact me here or call/text me at 909-332-2192 for a free 15 minute consultation.
