How to Find the Best NYC Therapist as BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+
NYC is the biggest and most diverse city in the US, which means that there are plenty of great therapists to choose from within the five boroughs as a BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ person. This can be exciting but also overwhelming as you narrow it down to one good fit. I’ll share with you things to watch out for as you start your journey to finding the best therapy match.
In-network vs Out-of-network
The first thing to consider is whether you are planning to find an in-network provider, meaning your insurance covers most of the cost while you pay a co-pay, or an out-of-network provider, where you pay the provider directly and seek reimbursement from your insurance afterward.
In-network provides a great opportunity for affordable care. However, many therapists are out-of-network due to restraints put forward by insurance companies. This includes how long they are able to see clients and the type of treatment they are able to provide. This puts limitations not only on the therapist but also on the client. With the out-of-network option, therapists are able to provide the care that they believe is best.
The two largest therapy directories in the US are PsychologyToday and GoodTherapy where you are able to filter through insurance preferences. Additionally, Low-Cost Therapy in New York City provides a list of providers that takes Medicaid, Medicare, or self-pay for under $50 or sometimes even free!
Do you want a therapist with a shared background?
If you hold intersecting identities, finding a therapist who shares your lived experiences may facilitate feelings of being seen, feeling safe, and provide a mutual understanding. You don’t have to find a therapist with all your shared identities to have a good therapeutic relationship, however, it’s important to ask yourself what makes you feel safe in the space.
What is the gender of your preferred therapist? Female, male, transgender, or non-binary.
Do you want a clinician of color? Asian, Black, Latinx, or Indigenous.
Would you prefer a therapist that is within the LGBTQ+ community?
Perhaps a therapist who shares your political views, spirituality, or religion?
Maybe you want a therapist that is Poly, Kink, or sex-affirming?
The Phone Consultation
The phone consultation will be your first time meeting your potential therapist and it’s important you feel prepared. It’s an opportunity for the therapist to ask what brings you to therapy, and ways they can help you. The consultation is also an opportunity for the therapist to answer any questions that are important to you.
Examples of questions to ask in a consultation:
What is your style of therapy? Are you direct, or passive?
What is your experience in (presenting problem)?
What does a typical session look like? Do you give homework or assignments between sessions?
Questions folx from marginalized communities may want to ask:
How do you address any inherent power dynamics in the therapy session?
How do you engage with the experiences of your clients that are LGBTQ+, Asian Americans, BIPOC, or any other identities?
Have you done any training on anti-racism or social justice?
Trust your gut!
The good thing about NYC is that there are plenty of skilled and specialized therapists that can help you. Make sure to pay attention to how you feel in the phone consultation. Did you feel comfortable and were you able to be yourself? Do you feel at ease when asking questions? Did the therapist’s responses and answers connect with you? Therapy is more than just working with your diagnosis or labels, it’s also about the connection between you and your therapist. Regardless of whether or not a therapist sounds good on paper, make sure to listen to your gut when you make your decision. Let me know if you find these tips helpful, I wish you luck in your therapy journey!
Additional Resources
Manhattan Alternative - Directory for LGBTQ+, Poly, and Kinky therapists
Inclusive Therapists- Directory for therapists of color
Therapy for Black Girls- Directory for Black therapists
Latinx Therapy- Directory for Latinx therapists
