How to Find the Right Therapist for You.

Finding a therapist can feel scary, kind of like making a new friend but knowing you will share big feelings with them. The good news is that there are many therapists, and you can find the right one for you. A good therapist will help you feel safe, supported.

If you are starting therapy for the first time or need a new therapist, this guide will help you.

Importance of Finding the Right Therapist.

Therapy is more than just talking. It is about feeling safe, understood, and cared for. A good therapist listens to you, helps you understand your feelings, and teaches you ways to feel better. They give you a space where you can share your thoughts without feeling judged. This helps you work through your worries and find new ways to deal with your feelings.

Not every therapist will be the right one for you, and that is okay. It is normal to try a few before finding someone who makes you feel comfortable. The most important part of therapy is trust. When you trust your therapist, you can open up and talk about what is really on your mind. Research shows that when a therapist and a client have a strong bond, therapy works better.

Different Types of Therapy.

There are many different types of therapy, each with its method and techniques. While it’s helpful to have a general understanding of the options, remember that a therapist’s expertise is in assessing your individual needs and recommending the most appropriate approach.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It’s usually useful for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
2. Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious patterns and past experiences to look into current behaviours and relationships.
3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This type of CBT helps people understand and control their emotions, stay calm, and build better relationships. It is often used for people who feel very strong emotions or have trouble getting along with others.
4. Humanistic Therapy: Emphasizes personal growth, self-acceptance, and the internal potential within you. It focuses on creating a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship.
5. Family Systems Therapy: Looks at how family members talk to each other and act. It helps find problems in the way they communicate and behave so they can work better as a family.

Tips Before Starting Therapy.

Before you start looking for a therapist, here are some important questions to ask yourself:

• What issues do I want support with? Anxiety, stress, sadness, relationships, or something else?
• Do I prefer a therapist who uses a specific method or approach?
• Would I benefit more from a therapist who mainly listens and talks, or one who teaches new skills?
• Is it important for me to work with a therapist of a certain gender, culture, or background?

Taking time to reflect on these can help you find the right fit and make therapy more effective.

How to Find a Therapist Who Feels Right.

• Use online directories: Platforms like Meela help you find therapists based on your needs and preferences.
• Ask people you trust: Friends or family members who have had positive therapy experiences can share their recommendations, helping you feel more confident in your choice.
• Check work benefits: Some employers or insurance plans offer therapy services, which can be an easy and affordable way to get support.
• Explore their online presence: Many therapists share details about their approach on their websites or social media. Reading this can help you decide if their style feels like a good fit.

How to Choose and Contact a Therapist.

Got a few therapists in mind? Here’s how to get to know them better:

• Check them out: Read their profile to see if they have experience with what you’re going through and if their style feels right.
• Check their qualifications: See that they’re trained, licensed, and allowed to be therapists.
• Have a quick chat: Many therapists give a short free call. This helps you ask questions and see if you feel comfortable with them.

What Makes a Therapist Qualified?

A good therapist has the right training and license. Some common types of therapists are:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
• Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD)
• Psychiatrist (MD) (if you need medication)

How to Know If Therapy Is Working.

• You feel listened to: Your therapist should pay attention to what you say and show that they understand. You should feel like your words and feelings matter.
• You feel safe to share: You should be able to talk about anything without feeling scared or judged. A good therapist makes you feel okay, to be honest.
• You feel helped: Over time, you should feel better and learn new ways to handle your feelings. Your therapist should support you and help you grow.

Ready for Therapy? Take the Self-Test to Find Out.

Not sure if therapy is right for you? Our quick and simple quiz can help you figure it out. Answer 8 questions (in less than 1 minute) and you’ll get an idea of whether therapy might be a good fit for you right now.

Take the test.