Now that the new year is right around the corner, goals like working on yourself are very common. The phrase new year new you is also seen often. Therapy can help you work on your relationships, improve your mental health, or recover from trauma.  Here are three things to consider when looking for a counselor.  

1. Figure out your therapy goals. What are you trying to accomplish? What areas do you need help with? For example, is it childhood trauma or marriage problems? Knowing this information can help your therapist gain insight. Your counselor is there to guide you instead of telling you what to do. Share with your counselor your areas of concern and together come up with goals. Also, remember that some counselors are more knowledgeable in certain areas.  

2. Figure out your budget. It is important to first find out how much money you have available to spend on a counselor. Some jobs offer counseling as one of the benefits of working for the company. However, there might be a limit on how many sessions you can receive for free. Some counselors accept insurance, and the client is only responsible for the copay. Other counselors only take cash so they might be a little more expensive. Find out which one is right for you.  

3. Figure out if you feel at ease with your counselor. Last but certainly not least, an important question to ask yourself is, do I feel safe with my counselor? Am I able to open-up and tell him or her things that are embarrassing? What if I don’t feel comfortable, do I have to stay? The answer is no. If you don’t feel like your counselor is a good fit for you, it is better to part ways. In order for therapy to work, you have to be able to be vulnerable. It is hard to open up when you don’t trust the person.  If you are not able to be honest with your counselor, it might be hard to gain any traction. It is better to keep on searching until you find the right person for you. Not every counselor will work out and counselors are aware of this fact.  

Looking for a counselor is an important step to having a better and healthier life. Even though going to therapy is hard, it is also very rewarding when you start to see improvements. Invest in yourself and your relationships. Both are worth it!