How to choose the right therapist

Choosing the Right Therapist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing a therapist can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never been to therapy before. With so many different types of therapy and therapists out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, finding the right therapist is crucial to your mental health and well-being. In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps to choosing the right therapist for you.

Step 1: Determine What Type of Therapy You’re Interested In

The first step in choosing the right therapist is to determine what type of therapy you’re interested in. There are many different types of therapy, each with its own approach, techniques, and benefits. Are you trying to tackle anxiety, heal hurt from a trauma, or become more at peace? Are you looking for ways to understand your partner better? These questions may help point you toward a particular modality. Some common types of therapy include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Psychodynamic therapy: This type of therapy focuses on exploring unconscious patterns and past experiences that may be impacting your current behavior.

Couples therapy: This type of therapy may focus on improving communication, relationship dynamics, or infidelity healing.

Family Therapy: This type of therapy looks at how to help the family system so all members of the family are thriving and getting their needs met.

Do some research on the different types of therapy and determine which one(s) may be best suited for your needs. You may find several modalities that align with your needs. Luckily, many therapists are generalists who can apply a variety of therapeutic types and techniques to help their clients. If you’re not sure, you can always consult with me HERE, or your primary care doctor.

Step 2: Consider Your Preferences

Once you’ve determined what type of therapy you’re interested in, consider your preferences when it comes to your therapist. For example, do you prefer a therapist of a particular gender, age range, or cultural background? Do you prefer to see a therapist in person or via teletherapy? These preferences can help you narrow down your search.

It’s also important to consider your comfort level with the therapist. Do you want someone who is warm and empathetic or someone who is more direct and challenging? Think about what kind of therapeutic relationship would work best for you, and what would help you make the most progress.

Step 3: Research Therapists

Once you’ve determined what type of therapy you’re interested in and your preferences, it’s time to start researching therapists. There are a few ways to do this:

Search engines: You can use search engines like Google to find therapists in your area or online.

Psychology directories: Websites like Psychology Today, Headway, and Path Mental Health have directories of therapists that you can search based on location, specialty, and other criteria.

Referrals: Ask friends, family members, or healthcare providers for recommendations.

When you find a therapist who interests you, read their profile. Check their qualifications, experience, and specialties to make sure they’re a good fit for your needs.

Step 4: Check Their Availability

Once you’ve found a few therapists who seem like a good fit, it’s important to check their availability. Make sure their hours align with your schedule and that they have openings for new clients. If you need flexibility, look for a therapist who offers online sessions or has evening or weekend availability.

Step 5: Schedule a Consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few therapists, schedule a consultation. Many therapists like myself offer a free or low-cost consultation session so you can get a sense of their style and approach. During this session, you can ask questions about their experience, specialties, and treatment approach. You can also discuss your concerns and see if you feel comfortable with them.

Remember, therapy is a personal and individual process. It’s important to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice your concerns.

Step 6: Trust Your Instincts

After you’ve had a consultation with a therapist, trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable with a particular therapist, it’s okay to keep looking until you find someone who is a better fit for you.

Good luck, and feel free to schedule a free consultation with me HERE!