HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR THERAPIST

So, you’ve decided to seek out a therapist—first off, well done. It takes a lot of courage to recognise when you need support, and choosing to prioritise your mental health is a huge step forward. But now that you’ve made the decision, you might be feeling overwhelmed by the next big question: How do I choose the right therapist? With so many options out there, it can feel a bit like dating, where you’re trying to find someone you click with, trust, and can open up to.

Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a significant step towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Choosing the right therapist is instrumental for your journey towards realising your full potential and transforming your life. As a counsellor, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right therapeutic relationship can be. But I also know that not every therapist is going to be the right fit for every person—and that’s okay. What’s most important is finding someone who aligns with you, your needs, and your personality. So, let’s break it down and help you find a therapist who can walk alongside you on your healing journey.

1. Understand What You’re Looking For

Before you dive into searching for a therapist, take a moment to reflect on what you’re seeking help for. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or maybe dealing with past trauma? Different therapists specialise in different areas, so having a sense of what you want to work on can guide your search.

Some therapists focus on specific issues like addiction, trauma, or couples therapy, while others take a more general approach. Knowing what you need support with can help you narrow down the type of therapist who will be best suited to your situation.

2. Check Out Their Approach and Style

Therapists come with a wide variety of approaches and techniques, so it’s important to find someone whose methods resonate with you.
You don’t need to be an expert in therapy modalities, but a little research can help you get a feel for what might work best for you. Some people prefer a structured, goal-oriented approach like CBT, while others might benefit from a more open-ended, exploratory style like psychodynamic therapy. It’s all about what feels right for you.

3. Connection is Key

This one is huge. The most effective therapy happens when you feel a genuine connection with your therapist. You should feel safe, supported, and comfortable being open with them. Therapy is a vulnerable process, and if you don’t feel at ease with your therapist, it can hold you back from making the progress you want.

During your first few sessions, pay attention to how you feel in their presence. Do you feel listened to? Respected? Does their energy put you at ease? Remember, it’s okay to trust your gut—if something feels off, it might not be the right fit.

4. Consider Their Credentials and Experience

It’s completely normal to meet with a therapist a few times before deciding whether they’re the right one for you. Think of it as an interview process for both you and the therapist. You’re allowed to switch therapists if the connection isn’t there—it doesn’t mean something is wrong with you or the therapist; it just means you’re finding the best match.

While personal connection is essential, it’s also important to consider the therapist’s credentials and experience. Look for registered professionals who have the training and expertise in the areas you’re seeking help with. In addition to formal qualifications, you might want to ask about their experience with specific issues, especially if you’re dealing with something like trauma, addiction, or grief. Don’t be shy about asking questions—your mental health is worth it!

5. Think About Practicalities

Therapy is a commitment, so you’ll also want to factor in some practical considerations, such as:

• Location: Is the therapist’s office easy to get to, or do they offer online sessions? These days, many therapists offer virtual sessions, which can be a game-changer if you prefer therapy from the comfort of home.
• Cost: Therapy can be an investment in yourself, but it’s important to find someone who fits within your budget. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees, so don’t hesitate to ask if cost is a concern. You can also check whether your health insurance covers therapy sessions.
• Availability: Is their schedule flexible enough to fit into your life? Make sure you’re choosing someone who has availability that works for you, whether that’s early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

6. Read testimonials or Get Referrals

If you’re feeling unsure where to start, personal referrals can be a great way to find a therapist. If you feel comfortable, ask friends, family, or even your doctor if they have recommendations. You can also check out online directories and read reviews to get a sense of what other clients have experienced with certain therapists. Just remember – testimonials and recommendations are helpful, but what works for someone else might not be the best fit for you. Use them as a guide, but trust your instincts when making the final decision.

7. Give It Time

Building a therapeutic relationship takes time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself and the process. The first session might feel a little awkward—that’s totally normal. Therapy is about creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges, and that space often takes a few sessions to fully form.

Give yourself permission to take things slow. Trust grows over time, and it’s okay if it takes a little while to get there. But if after several sessions you’re still feeling disconnected or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to explore other options. Finding the right therapist is about finding someone who makes you feel seen, heard, and supported in your journey.

Ready to Find Your Therapist?