Couch Commons

Finding a therapist

How to find a therapist by specialty

For a specific approach or concern, start with the professional body that trains or certifies in it. Most keep their own search: EMDRIA for EMDR, the DBT-Linehan Board for DBT, the International OCD Foundation for OCD. Then check the therapist's license in the state register, because a directory listing is not a license check.

Links and descriptions checked .

EMDR

The VA's National Center for PTSD describes EMDR as an individual therapy for PTSD that focuses on processing the memory of the trauma. Source

Where to search: EMDRIA: find an EMDR therapist. The search lists EMDRIA members. EMDRIA Certified Therapist is a separate credential; ask whether the therapist holds it.

DBT (dialectical behavior therapy)

NIMH describes DBT as using mindfulness, awareness of one's present situation and emotional state, and as teaching skills to help control intense emotions. Source

Where to search: DBT-LBC: find a certified clinician. Many clinicians use DBT skills without board certification. The board's search lists only those it has certified.

OCD and ERP (exposure and response prevention)

IOCDF describes ERP as a type of CBT that involves practising facing the thoughts, images and situations that cause anxiety while not doing the compulsion. Source

Where to search: IOCDF resource directory. The directory includes therapists, support groups and prescribers, in person and online.

Trauma and PTSD

NIMH notes that people with PTSD may keep feeling stressed or frightened even when they are not in danger. Source

Where to search: ISTSS: find a trauma specialist · VA National Center for PTSD: how to find a therapist. Veterans can also ask about care through the VA.

CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)

NIMH lists, among the elements of psychotherapy, helping a person notice automatic ways of thinking that are inaccurate or harmful and question them. Source

Where to search: ABCT: find a therapist. CBT is a family of approaches. Ask which one the therapist uses for your concern.

Couples and family therapy

Marriage and family therapists are licensed separately in each state; check the license in the state register. Source

Where to search: AAMFT: find a therapist · Gottman Referral Network (Certified Gottman Therapists). The Gottman network lists clinicians trained in one specific method. It is one option, not a requirement.

Adult ADHD

NIMH notes that ADHD symptoms begin in childhood and usually continue into the teen years and adulthood. Source

Where to search: CHADD professional directory. A directory listing is not a license check. Diagnosis and medication are separate from therapy; ask who does what.

Narcissistic or emotional abuse

"Narcissistic abuse" is a common phrase, not a diagnosis. Narcissistic personality disorder is a diagnosis (MedlinePlus), and emotional abuse is described by the National Domestic Violence Hotline as non-physical behavior meant to control, isolate, or frighten (source). Look for a licensed therapist who works with trauma or abuse, and ask how they approach it at first contact.

Then check the license

Specialty bodies certify training; states license therapists. Look up the named person in the state's register:New York, New Jersey,Connecticut, or every launch state.

Substance use, abuse, and crisis help

General information, not clinical advice. Couch Commons is not affiliated with any organization listed here.

Questions about finding a specialist

How do I find a therapist who specializes in EMDR, DBT, or OCD?

Start with the professional body's own search: EMDRIA for EMDR, the DBT-Linehan Board of Certification for DBT, and the International OCD Foundation for OCD and ERP. Then check the therapist's license in the state register, because a directory listing is not a license check.

How do I find a therapist for narcissistic abuse?

Narcissistic abuse is not a clinical diagnosis. Look for a licensed therapist who works with trauma or emotional abuse, and ask how they approach it. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) covers emotional abuse and can talk through options.

Does a specialty certification mean the therapist is licensed?

No. Certifications come from professional bodies; licenses come from the state. Check both: the certification in the body's search, and the license in the state's official register.

Where can I find help for substance use in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut?

New York: OASAS HOPEline 1-877-846-7369. New Jersey: ReachNJ 1-844-REACHNJ. Connecticut: DMHAS Access Line 1-800-563-4086. Nationally: SAMHSA's helpline 1-800-662-4357 or FindTreatment.gov.