How to Find the Right Therapist for YOU

Finding the right therapist can feel confusing, especially if you are new to the process. It’s not just about credentials and specialties; it's also about feeling a genuine connection with your therapist and feeling safe to share with them. Your intuition plays a crucial role in this process. Keep reading for tips on how to listen to you gut and find the right match.

• Know what you’re looking for.

Before you even start searching, take a moment to reflect on what you need from therapy. Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or body image concerns? Do you want to master specific coping skills and strategies, or are you just looking for a non-judgmental space to verbally process your life? Are you wanting to delve into years-old trauma or simply just learn more about yourself?

A question I love to ask my clients is - “How will we know if therapy is working for you?” I encourage you to consider what concrete changes you would like to make in your life, and how you will know when you are making progress. Once you are clear on what you are looking for, finding the right therapist should feel a little less daunting.

• Research & Reflect.

Start by researching therapists in your area. The Psychology Today Directory is a great place to start. Verify each therapist’s licensure and that they are certified to practice in the state you live in. From there, you can explore their certifications, specialties, and treatment approaches to see what might resonate with you.

I recommend making a list of potential candidates. As you read through their profiles, notice your gut reactions. Do you feel drawn to certain therapists? Is there something about their background or approach that feels right to you?

• Notice your first impression.

Once you have a shortlist, consider reaching out for an initial consultation. Most therapists offer a free 15-20 minute consultation either online or via phone call. Pay attention to your feelings during this conversation. Do you feel comfortable and heard? Does the conversation flow fairly easily? Could you see yourself delving into difficult topics with them in the future? 

• Evaluate your connection.

During your first few sessions, assess the therapeutic relationship. Are you able to be open and honest with them? Do they respect your pace and boundaries? A strong therapeutic alliance is crucial for effective therapy. Your gut feelings about the therapist’s empathy, understanding, and professionalism are important indicators. 

If it doesn’t feel like a good fit, that’s okay! Therapists are trained to understand that they will not be the best fit for every client they come across- it’s absolutely normal, and most therapists will not take this personally. Your therapist can provide you with referrals for other therapists to try reaching out to.

• Give it time.

Sometimes, it takes a few sessions to truly understand if a therapist is right for you. If you aren’t totally sure but you see potential, give it a little time. However, if you feel a consistent discomfort or misalignment, it’s more than okay to seek out a different therapist.

Finding the right therapist can take a while, and that's okay. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your intuition is a valuable tool in finding someone who will genuinely support and understand you. Trust yourself—you know what feels right for you.

If you are interested in scheduling a free initial consultation at Morning Bird Therapy, please reach out to eada@morningbirdtherapy.com!