How to Find the Right Therapist for You

Friends and family members have asked me from time to time, how do I got about about finding the right therapist? As someone who cares about people feeling better and also  knowing the potential for change with the right therapist, I'm so eager to talk about this!

If you're a current or past client of mine you will have heard me say that my first priority in therapy is establishing a good relationship and ensuring you are comfortable with who you're working with. Therapy is often a big decision as people enter into it; it's a place where the things most important to you will be explored. And as someone who has been on the client side myself, I completely understand the importance of working with someone who is a good fit for you.

Here are some signs and things to consider, whether you are looking for a therapist or deciding on whether the therapist you are seeing is a good fit for you. A good client-therapist match occurs when:

- you are working on goals that you are in agreement on

- you feel understood by your therapist and you can clarify misunderstandings together

- you feel respected by your therapist

- your cultural and personal values are being considered where appropriate

- you feel cared for by your therapist

- your thinking style is in alignment with the therapy approach being used

- you've agreed on ways that the approach may challenge your current ways of thinking and feeling

- you are providing feedback or working towards providing feedback to your therapist

-  you are building an authentic relationship together

It is my intention that the above list may further equip you with the right questions as you seek out therapy or continue to pursue it. If you are in therapy, try to be brave and open up discussion around anything that isn't fitting. And if that's hard, mention that and let your therapist guide the exploration of fit. Most therapists are open to your feedback and would highly value the opportunity to discuss anything you may feel isn't working for you!

May this information be clarifying to you and help lead you in the right direction!