Thanks all!

It's tough finding a therapist in the DMV -- there's a shortage. The last time I found a new one I think I had 3 recommendations (I can't remember where I got them). I contacted them, none of them were taking new clients, but all of them recommended 2-3 other therapists. I contacted them, and none of them were seeing new clients, but they referred a few people. I played this game for a while until someone had someone in their group with availability. Good luck.

The best places to get referrals is friends and physicians. I also have had luck cold trying out a therapist I found on my insurance list. Both times I prepared to try out a bunch, but lucked out on the first. That was back in the day when it was easier to get in long before the pandemic.

I find any recs I get here or nextdoor I need to take with a grain of salt because I suspect people self refer. Online reviews can be purchased so they are a little info, but not much.

Anonymous wrote:Often people on DCUM recommend that a poster seek therapy.

Can anyone out there recommend a therapist for someone who does not really have a diagnosis. Rather, I am dealing with common challenges of aging: empty nest (for a single mom), fear of all the health problems that seem right around the corner, and facing them alone. Bit worried about the finances of retirement. So not really a mental illness, per se, but thought it might be helpful to have someone that I could talk to about the transitions that come with aging.

Someone who mentions they help people with life transitions.

You do not need a specific diagnosis to see a therapist, that's their job. And even if you don't have a defined mental health condition, you can still get and benefit from therapy. Dealing with life changes, anxiety, decision-making are good reasons to go.

I'm sorry that I don't have a specific recommendation for you, but I have some suggestions on finding one.

1. Make a list of what you want to get from seeing someone. What are you struggling with and what outcomes are you looking for.
2. Google 'how to find a therapist' for ideas.
3. Check what your insurance covers.
4. Go to psychologytoday.com and search for therapists in your area.
5. Ask friends/family for recommendations (if you're comfortable with that).

Good luck, OP!

Often people on DCUM recommend that a poster seek therapy.

Can anyone out there recommend a therapist for someone who does not really have a diagnosis. Rather, I am dealing with common challenges of aging: empty nest (for a single mom), fear of all the health problems that seem right around the corner, and facing them alone. Bit worried about the finances of retirement. So not really a mental illness, per se, but thought it might be helpful to have someone that I could talk to about the transitions that come with aging.