How to Choose the Right Therapist for You
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and often, a deeply meaningful one. Whether you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or simply know it’s time to talk to someone, learning how to choose the right therapist can be the first step toward feeling more grounded. But with so many approaches, styles, and personalities out there, the process can feel confusing.
This guide is here to help you navigate that choice with clarity and care. From understanding different therapy types to recognising what truly matters in a therapeutic relationship, we’ll explore how to find a therapist who aligns not just with your goals, but with your values, pace, and humanity.
Understanding the Importance of Finding the Right Therapist
Your Feelings Are Valid and Normal
Choosing to begin therapy is a meaningful act of self-care—but it’s also natural to feel unsure or overwhelmed. The process of finding the right therapist can feel confusing at times, with so many types of therapy and approaches available. Wherever you are in your search, it’s okay to take your time. What matters most is finding someone who feels like the right fit for you.
Beyond Logistics: The Emotional Fit
Finding a therapist is about far more than location or cost. It’s about finding someone you feel comfortable with. Someone who listens, understands, and feels like a safe presence. The emotional connection and trust you build together often matter just as much as the therapeutic approach itself, shaping how deeply and honestly you can explore your inner world.
Aligning Values with Therapeutic Goals
When you choose a therapist, it's essential to consider whether the therapist's approach aligns with your personal values and therapeutic goals. This involves understanding what you hope to gain from therapy and whether the therapist's style resonates with your needs.
What to Look for in a Good Therapist
Qualifications and Accreditation
It’s important to check that a therapist is fully qualified and accredited by a recognised professional body. This ensures they’ve met the necessary standards to practise safely and ethically. But beyond credentials, what truly matters is how you feel in their presence. The right therapist won’t just be well trained - they’ll help you feel safe enough to explore what’s difficult and support you in facing life’s challenges with compassion.
Creating a Safe and Non-Judgmental Space
A crucial aspect of a good therapist is their ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space. It’s essential that you feel comfortable being open and honest with your therapist about your thoughts and feelings. This environment fosters trust, allowing for deeper exploration and healing.
Exploring Types of Therapy from an Existential Perspective
The Role of Presence in Therapy
In existential therapy, presence is key. It’s about you feeling that your therapist is attentive, engaged, and open. This kind of presence creates space for genuine connection, where you feel truly seen and heard. When your therapist is grounded in the moment with you, it invites a deeper, more honest exploration of what you’re experiencing. Over time, this helps build a relationship rooted in trust, authenticity, and mutual respect.
Open-Ended Exploration vs. Quick Fixes
Existential therapy diverges from more directive approaches by prioritising open-ended exploration over quick fixes. When you choose a therapist who practices existential therapy, you're choosing to embark on a journey of self-discovery rather than seeking immediate solutions to your problems. This type of therapy can be daunting for some, as it requires a willingness to sit with uncertainty and explore complex emotions without the pressure of finding immediate answers. However, the potential rewards of this approach can be profound, leading to greater self-awareness and a more meaningful life.
Sitting with Uncertainty in Therapy
A key aspect of existential therapy is the ability to sit with uncertainty. The right therapist will not rush to provide answers or solutions but will instead help you explore your feelings and experiences without judgment. This process allows you to develop a greater capacity for self-reflection and resilience, empowering you to cope with life's challenges more effectively. Finding a therapist who is comfortable with uncertainty is essential for those seeking this type of therapeutic experience, as they can provide a safe and supportive space for exploration.
Practical Considerations When Choosing a Therapist
Online vs. In-Person Sessions
When considering access therapy, one of the first practical decisions to make is whether you'd like in-person or online sessions. There are distinct advantages to each approach:
In-person sessions provide the opportunity for face-to-face interaction, which some people find more conducive to building a strong therapeutic relationship.
Online therapy offers greater flexibility and convenience, allowing you to connect with a therapist from the comfort of your own home.
When you choose a therapist, consider what feels most comfortable and accessible for you, as this will impact your ability to attend sessions regularly.
Session Format and Availability
The session format and availability of the therapist you’re considering are also important practical considerations. Think about the frequency and duration of sessions that would best fit your needs and schedule. It is worth exploring these elements:
The frequency and duration of sessions (some therapists offer shorter, more frequent sessions, while others provide longer, less frequent appointments).
The therapist's availability in terms of days and times, as well as their cancellation policy.
Finding a therapist whose schedule aligns with yours will help ensure that you can consistently attend sessions and make progress in therapy.
Cost and Affordability
Cost is often a significant factor when considering therapy. It’s essential to inquire about the therapist's fees and payment options upfront. If cost is a major barrier, speak to your therapist and find out what options are available that could suit you.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing
Do I Feel Understood by My Therapist?
One of the most important questions to ask yourself when you choose a therapist is, "Do I feel understood?" Therapy is most effective when you feel that your therapist genuinely hears and understands your concerns, experiences, and perspectives. This sense of being understood fosters a safe and trusting environment, allowing you to delve deeper into your issues and work toward healing and growth. Therefore, the right therapist can help you feel validated, supported, and empowered to explore your inner world.
Is There Space for My Own Pace?
Another crucial question to consider is, "Is there space for my own pace?" Therapy is a deeply personal journey, and it's essential that you feel comfortable moving at your own speed. A good therapist will respect your need to process things at your own rhythm, without rushing or pressuring you to confront issues before you're ready. The right therapist understands that healing takes time and that it's okay to proceed at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
Can I Bring My Whole Self to Therapy?
Finally, ask yourself, "Can I bring my whole self to therapy?" The best therapy occurs when you feel safe enough to be authentic and genuine, without fear of judgment or rejection. The right therapist will create a space where you can express all aspects of yourself – your strengths, weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and imperfections. This sense of acceptance allows you to explore your issues more fully and work toward greater self-understanding and self-compassion. Therapy can be daunting, so finding a good fit is essential.
Recognising When It Might Not Be a Good Fit
The Normalcy of Switching Therapists
It's important to recognise that it's perfectly normal to switch therapists if you don't feel that you're a good fit. Finding a therapist who aligns with your needs and preferences can take time, and it's not uncommon to try out several therapists before finding the right one. Don't feel discouraged if the first therapist you see isn't the right match. It's a sign of self-awareness and commitment to your mental health to seek out another therapist who is a better fit for you. Don't be afraid to choose the right therapist for your needs.
Taking Time and Reflection in the Process
Remember that finding the right therapist often involves taking time and reflection. The process of finding a good therapist can be daunting, but it's important to be patient and trust your intuition. After each session or consultation, take some time to reflect on how you felt during the session and whether you felt a sense of connection with the therapist. Consider whether the therapist's style and approach resonate with you and whether you feel comfortable being open and honest with them. Taking the time to reflect on these factors will help you make an informed decision about whether to continue working with the therapist.
Take the First Step
Exploring therapy options can be intimidating, but it's helpful to frame the journey as an act of self-trust. By seeking out therapy, you're acknowledging your own needs and trusting that you deserve support and guidance. Finding the right therapist can feel daunting, but it's important to remember that the journey is about trusting yourself and your ability to find the support you need.
Reach Out to Badashian Therapy
If you're searching for a therapist who will meet you with openness and compassion, Badashian Therapy offers a reflective space where you're free to explore what matters most to you. Here, there’s no pressure to have the answers or to be anyone other than yourself. We create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can move at your own pace — and begin wherever you are.