How To Find A Therapist That Works With Childhood Emotional Neglect
November 29th, 2024
Healing from CEN requires a safe, supportive space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding a therapist experienced with childhood emotional neglect.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding a therapist experienced with childhood emotional neglect.
Identify Your Needs and Preferences
Are you looking to process past neglect, develop emotional awareness, or work on relationship patterns? Identifying your primary focus can help you choose the right therapist.
Do you prefer in-person sessions or are you open to online therapy?
Determine what you can afford, and check if your insurance covers therapy.
What style are you looking for? Some people prefer a warm and nurturing therapist, while others might want someone more structured.
Look for Therapists with CEN Expertise
Jonice Webb, the author of *Running on Empty*, has a directory of therapists trained specifically in her CEN framework. Visit her website [here](https://www.drjonicewebb.com/) to find practitioners familiar with her approach.
When reviewing a therapist’s profile:
Look for terms like "childhood emotional neglect," "attachment issues," "trauma-informed therapy," or "family systems."
Note their therapeutic modalities: Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EMDR can all be helpful when working with CEN.
Ask Questions
Do you have experience working with childhood emotional neglect?
What is your approach to helping clients reconnect with their emotions?
How do you address issues like emotional awareness, self-worth, and relationship patterns?
What therapeutic methods do you use, and how might they help someone dealing with CEN?
Trust Your Gut
Healing from CEN requires a safe, supportive space. After meeting a potential therapist, ask yourself: