There are a large number of professional directories on the internet nowadays, guiding those who are seeking psychological or counselling services to those who are providing them. Noah Rubenstein from Goodtherapy.org contacted me looking to profile his site; a large, free, international directory of therapists and counsellors. Professionals can create a free searchable profile that includes photo, qualifications, contact details, office locations, services provided and expertise areas. Not a bad marketing tool for therapists looking for greater exposure. In exchange for the listing, the Goodtherapy.org people (Noah, Charlene and baby Kobe) ask that you provide a reciprocal link to Goodtherapy.org to help build a cohesive network of therapists and not surprisingly promote their therapist directory.

In order to be listed on GoodTherapy.org, an applicant must:

1. be a Mental Health Professional (Counselor, Psychotherapist, Social Worker, Marriage & Family Therapist, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Physician, or Nurse Practitioner);

2. have graduate level academic training in psychotherapy and/or mental health counseling and a degree from an accredited institution;

3. read the Elements of Good Therapy statement and agree that the services they provide accord in orientation and attitude to those elements as defined in the statement.

The site has many additional features to help those seeking therapeutic services, including tutorials on what constitutes good therapy and professional ethics and a blog/articles section that includes submissions by many of the therapists listed on the site. For professionals, the site also maintains a listing of workshops by location. Although the site has an international focus and over 1600 listings, the Australian listings (workshops and therapists) are limited. I am guessing the site is most applicable to those residing in the states.

A cautionary note: those using therapist directories to find a therapist should always endeavour to check the qualifications of the therapist they find. There are multiple different professionals that can fall under the “therapist/ counsellor” title and consumers should be aware that they work in different ways, based on different theories. A therapist/ counsellor should always be able to explain to you a) their qualifications and professional registration and b) the kind of therapy they provide.