For those who have therapists, how did you know that they were the right one? I've just started therapy because I've always felt like I'm not good enough at my job. This imposter syndrome before was tolerable but now it's changing how I view myself entirely. I just want to find a good therapist that will get me out of this mindset 😔

Really glad you are reaching out for help! I have had many therapists (5+) over the last 6 years and I’ve found the below things helpful. 1. Person of Color (I’ve had white therapists that have been great, but I always get that feeling that I can’t be myself) 2. Ability to be honest with them 3. They have an expertise or established background in what you are going in for 4. You feel comfortable sharing 5. Your desire for completing homework or outside of therapy exercices incorporated into your treatment/ or not if that’s not what your interested in 6. You walk away feeling better than you did before the session more often than not especially when it comes to seeking support with self confidence I hope this helps! And remember these are just my thoughts on what I’ve found to be helpful. It might not always be the one for you, but it’s helpful when they can be flexible with what you need and you feel most comfortable sharing about yourself so that you can heal.

I would definitely try to find a black woman as your therapist. I knew mine was right for me because she made me and my emotions feel valid but at the same time gently called me out in areas where I could do better. In relation to my job and imposter syndrome, she was so helpful, she practically coached me into taking care of myself, looking at my self not only worthy or qualified, but that I should t place my value in my work. When I tell you learning helped a lot when it came to imposter syndrome whewww. It will definitely take time though, so don’t give up on the first or second session bc it isn’t an instant fix.

Following because I’m seriously considering a therapist for the first time in my life. With the covid of it all, I’m curious how you found yours? Did you start somewhere like an online platform (e.g., talkspace), or find a therapist who regularly practiced person but are doing phone calls for the time being? Also did you prioritize having a Black woman as your therapist? Any insight is helpful.

Well when you first start it might feel pretty awkward. My current therapist— she’s okay. She takes on a girlfriend type of role and I think that she is good when I just wanna rant. Say things that I am not comfortable saying to anyone else and hearing someone non judgemental share her thoughts. My previous therapist who was white, it was awkward but the way she helped me cut through my own BS was AMAZING. I was able to challenge some of my own thoughts and realize how so much of it was self inflicted. A good therapist helps you get super grounded about your reality and you feel SO good afterwards because that heavy cloud over you has dissipated. So exactly like what BAH said - you walk away feeling better than you did. Give it a couple of sessions though. I I’d say at least by your 6 sessions, if you haven’t had at least 1 mini break through, you may need to find a better fit.

We need to connect! However I listened to Therapy for Black girls and went through the database for a therapist. Came across one and she happened to go to the same high school, college, and church back in our hometown. I just felt comfortable and eager to go to get drama off of my chest.

Her ability to rapidly deconstruct issues and provide food for thought and solutions. Whew Chile moved to another state for a year and came back to her. She’s magic.

You should look into what you want. Normally your insurance provider has a database. I found a therapist that was a black woman, Christian based, focusing on anxiety. She’s really helped me work through my imposter syndrome issues.