Finding a Child Therapist, Counselor, or Psychologist in San Francisco

 It’s hard enough finding a therapist for yourself. When it comes to finding someone that specializes in child therapy, that’s a different story. You wonder if your child will be receptive to sessions with a new adult or whether your child will even like them. Can you trust just any therapist to help you and your child through the challenges you’re experiencing?

I want to help you find a child therapist San Francisco

When you’re searching online or asking trusted people for recommendations, here are 6 things to consider to help you identify a therapist, counselor or psychologist that is the right fit for your family’s needs.

What kind of support are you looking for?

Sometimes child therapists have special interests and/or training to work with a specific population or certain issues. Get clear on what type of help you’re looking for such as support for managing difficult behavior like tantrums or defiance; the loss of a loved one, or school related concerns, etc.

Are you willing to participate in sessions?

Decide if you are open and willing to participate in sessions, whether that’s on a regular basis or not. The reasons for going to therapy may be a factor for your level of involvement. This can be anywhere from short check ins with the therapist before or after a session to attending weekly joint sessions with your child.

Have you considered the benefits of child therapy via telehealth?

With the rise in popularity of therapy via telehealth in recent years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, you might want to consider if this format is a right fit for you and your family. Maybe you are now an expert in attending video calls but consider whether or not your child has benefitted from learning via video meeting formats used in distance learning; or if it would be more valuable for them to participate in therapy at a physical location.

Do you want to talk to a child therapist directly before scheduling your first session?

Most therapists offer a free phone consultation where you can ask any questions not addressed on their website, need clarifications on the services they offer, and to simply get a feel for the therapist in general. I highly suggest taking advantage of this opportunity because working with a therapist is a personal decision and I think it's important that you start your working relationship with a potential therapist even before you schedule your first session.

Will you pay out of pocket or use your medical insurance benefits?

If you decide to use your medical insurance there are a few more things to consider. For example, you’ll want to find out if your insurance covers “outpatient psychotherapy services” (ie. individual, couples, family therapy) and how that coverage works (how many sessions are approved per year, co-pays, deductibles that have to be met before your insurance kicks in, etc). If your insurance does cover therapy, you will only be able to choose your therapist from the insurance’s pre-approved list of providers. If you choose to pay out of pocket, the cost per session is straightforward and you have the freedom to choose which therapist you partner with in getting the support you need.

A free consultation for Child Therapy San Francisco

I hope these 5 questions to consider while searching for a “child therapist near me” on Google helps you find the one you’re looking for! If you’re still confused about how to find a therapist that’s a good fit for you, feel free to call me at (408) 884-6328 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I’d be more than happy to hear about what’s going on and help you get moving in the right direction.

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