Summarize:

Look for someone who has experience working with clients in your situation. Psychologists tend to concentrate on certain age groups or kinds of issue. Your candidates may have areas of interest listed on their website or wherever they are listed, or you may have to ask. You may be interested in working with a psychologist who has experience with your age group. Some psychologists specialize in treating queer youth, or the elderly, or families. If you will need your psychologist to perform functions for you outside of individual sessions, such as testifying in court, make sure your psychologist has experience. Find someone who has expertise in custody battles, for instance, if you are about to enter divorce. If you can't find information on your candidate's website, ask "What sort of experience do you have working with clients who are/who struggle with/who would like to" At a minimum, a good psychologist will be licensed by the state or jurisdiction they practice in. This is a license that is only renewed for psychologists who demonstrate competence and adherence to professional ethics. Psychologists have doctoral degrees, so you should find a "PhD" noted after the name of any psychologist you are considering. Psychologists charge variable rates, so find one who you can afford to stay with as long as you need. If you have health insurance, your insurance may cover some of the costs of care. If you don't, or if your health insurance won't cover your mental health needs, you may find yourself paying between 100-250 out of pocket for a session. However, there are ways to find a psychologist you can afford: don't give up just because the initial costs seem high. Many psychologists work on a sliding scale. Explain that your funds are limited, and ask for a low hourly rate. Ask for a cash discount. Some psychologists will give you a discount if you can pay in cash instead of by card or check. Ask your insurer for the list of psychologists in your area who are covered by your insurance, or search for mental health practitioners on your insurance company's website. If your insurance doesn't mention psychologists, ask what they do cover. Some policies may include social workers, for instance. Contact a community mental health center for free or low-cost services.
Search for a psychologist with the right expertise. Check your candidates' credentials. Consider cost.