How do i find a good counseler without asking for recommendations?!

How do i find a good counseler without asking for recommendations?

I've had slight depression for a few years now and finally got up the nerve to actually go talk to someone about it. I really don't want to ask anyone for recommendations because this is private for me. How do I find a good couselor without just picking one out of the phone book , especially when the insurance company is unable to make any recommendations?

Your insurance company should have a list of counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists that are covered under your plan. I would start calling doctors who are closer to where you live/work and if you prefer male or female. Make a list of questions that might help you decide who is right. Questions might be:
What times do you have available?
Have you worked with depressions before?
Do you allow for emergency after hour calls?
Do you lean more towards medication?
What credentials do you have?
Are you religious based?

If you can do a phone interview, it will help you get a feel for this counselor. Does he/she sound like someone you can talk to? You can always go for a session and decide that its not going to work out and find someone else.
Remember you are hiring them to help you. You have the right to look for the right counselor for you.

Good Luck!