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As a survivor of abuse, it is important for you to remember that you are precisely that: a survivor. Survivors win; they persevere through the toughest times, often dealing with things that others cannot possibly understand until they have lived it themselves. You'll want to find a therapist who makes you feel triumphant in the face of adversities, not one who perpetuates your feelings of being a victim.

The search for the right therapist often seems too difficult an undertaking for someone in distress. Ensuring that you find a counselor who is sympathetic to your needs and capable of helping you work through your issues can be daunting. The product of your hunt should ultimately be your mental well-being; therefore, selecting the right therapist is imperative to your recovery.

Finding the courage to begin your search is the first major hurdle. Personal experience is often the best example; if you have friends or family who have sought counseling, ask them where they have found help. Although survivors should never suffer embarrassment for seeking counseling, many people are reluctant to ask around. In this case, a call to a physician or caseworker from a local crisis agency will help to point you in the right direction.

A good therapist will be able to make you feel comfortable from the moment of your first meeting. Many counselors will offer their clients a free telephone consultation, which is a good way for you to get a feel for the way you'll interact with them in person. It may take several phone calls, but the initial impression you get from a therapist will play a large role during the course of your therapy.

Once you've found a therapist that you're comfortable opening up to, see if they accept your insurance. It could prove catastrophic if you have to end your counseling before you've accomplished all your goals because you haven't got the money to continue. If you don't have insurance, ask if they work on a "sliding scale" for payment; rather than deny people help, some counselors are willing to personalize their rates based on the amount of money you earn.

It's important to remember that you are paying a professional to help you cope with the difficulties you've endured. During the course of your therapy, you should remain comfortable telling your counselor what's on your mind. If they tell you what you're thinking, they are wrong - only you know what's going on inside your head. Don't be afraid to confront this issue with them, either; a good therapist will openly listen to your objections and re-shape their approach to helping you recover.

Although the search for the right therapist may seem difficult, remember that your peace of mind and mental well-being are worth it. You, as a survivor of abuse, will be able to focus more on your recovery by selecting a therapist who understands where you're coming from and possesses the knowledge to help you repair the damage that has been done. You deserve to be happy and at peace; choosing the right therapist will help get you there.

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