Choosing a Psychologist

Professional psychologists are trained to assess and treat psychological challenges. During the treatment process, they may provide counseling, psychotherapy, consultation, behavior modification, biofeedback, or hypnosis to individuals, groups, organizations, and businesses to relieve psychological and emotional problems.

As part of the assessment process, psychologists may develop, administer, and interpret tests of mental abilities, aptitudes, neuropsychological functioning, vocational interests, personality characteristics, and motivations to help understand or explain certain behaviors and emotions. Professional psychologists also teach, provide supervision, and consult with individuals or groups, and teaching.

Tips for choosing a psychologist

Laws and rules for the practice of psychology may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Be aware that every jurisdiction may have different laws and rules regarding the practice of psychology and licensed professionals. Our tips apply generally to the process of choosing a psychologist in any jurisdiction.

Have specific questions about your jurisdiction?

Contact your local board

These simple steps will help you find a psychologist who meets your needs.

  1. Decide what you want help with. Issues related to children, spouses, elderly parents, child custody, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety are common topics that can be addressed by a professional psychologist.
  2. Look for a psychologist trained in the area for which you are seeking help. To obtain a suitable referral:
    • Ask someone you know who has been in therapy, feels good about the experience, and has changed in ways you consider positive.
    • Consult your family physician, other health professionals, attorney, minister, school, or local crisis intervention service.
    • Seek recommendations from friends and relatives.
    • Check with your health insurance company for a list of authorized providers.
    • Call the professional associations in your area for referrals to professional psychologists who specialize in your specific area of need.
  3. Check the license status of your prospective psychologist by contacting the psychology licensing board for your jurisdiction. The licensing board can confirm that the psychologist is licensed and whether they have taken any disciplinary action against the psychologist.
  4. Talk with your prospective psychologist in person or on the phone to see if you feel comfortable working with them. Consider whether you would prefer to work with someone older or younger, of a particular ethnic group, or with a psychologist who shares your gender.