THERAPIST SHOPPING

Therapist shopping is the process of searching for and selecting the right therapist for you. It’s a crucial step that is often not talked about in general discussions on mental health and therapy. Just as each individual is unique, so too are therapists and their approaches to therapy. Since therapy is a very subjective and curated process for each individual, you may find that a “one size fits all” principle doesn’t really work here.

This is where the “shopping” comes in. Finding the right kind of therapist—whose style, space, goals, and approach you feel most comfortable with in relation to your expectations can make all the difference in your therapeutic journey.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of looking for the right therapist for you:

1. Try to Ascertain Your Needs and Goals

Before diving into your search for a therapist, take some time to clarify your needs and goals for therapy. It’s not essential that you create a list or have them jotted down somewhere (though feel free to do that if it works for you). Simply having a broad idea or theme that you want to discuss will suffice.

For those of you who may have done a little reading in the realm of therapy and psychology, you can also consider what type of therapy might meet your needs best (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy), and what qualities in a therapist would make you feel comfortable in the engagement e.g., empathy, expertise, cultural competence.

Notice how you feel during the consultation—do you feel heard, understood, and acknowledged? Do you feel comfortable opening up to the therapist? If something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t hesitate to explore other options. Imagine what qualities you would expect someone to have who can best hold the space that you are looking for.

2. Research Potential Therapists

Once you’re clear about the above, it’s time to start researching potential therapists. One way that often yields promising results is by asking for recommendations from friends, teachers, or trusted healthcare professionals. If someone is offering a recommendation, it’s likely that they’ve tried the therapist themselves or heard positive reviews from others.

These days, there are many portals that host therapists on their platforms. Checking out these websites is also a good place to start. They often have reviews, qualifications, and specialities listed for each therapist, which can make it easier for someone who is entering this arena for the first time.

3. Be Open to Trying Different Therapists

Finding the right therapist is often a process of trial and error. If you don’t feel a strong connection with the first therapist you try, don’t be discouraged. It’s okay to explore other options until you find someone who feels like the right fit for you.

Keep in mind that finding the right therapist is about finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and supported. Be patient and persistent in your search, it will be worth it.

4. Consider Logistics and Practicalities

As you narrow down your list of potential therapists, it’s important to consider the practical aspects—like location, availability, and affordability. Think about whether you prefer in-person sessions or are open to teletherapy (online therapy) options.

While in-person therapy may seem like the more ‘traditional’ route, online therapy offers its own unique benefits. It gives you access to a wider pool of therapists, including those who might align better with your needs but live in a different city or country. It also brings in a level of flexibility and comfort—you can attend sessions from your own space, without the added stress of travel or commuting, which can often be a barrier to consistency.

Many clients also find that being in a familiar environment during sessions helps them feel safer, more at ease, and able to open up more quickly. As long as you have a private and uninterrupted space, online therapy can be just as effective, and in some cases, even more sustainable in the long run.

In the end, therapy is an investment worth making.

5. Schedule Initial Consultations

Some therapists offer initial consultations or phone calls to give you an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and get a sense of whether they’re the right fit for you. Take advantage of these consultations to assess the therapist’s communication style, personality, and approach to therapy.

Be prepared to ask questions about their experience, qualifications, treatment approach, and how they typically work with clients who have concerns similar to yours.

Entering therapy can feel like embarking on a journey into the unknown. Whether you’re seeking therapy for the first time or beginning a new therapeutic relationship, it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation, uncertainty, and hope. Understanding what to expect can ease some of the apprehension and help you make the most of your therapeutic experience.