How Do I Find the Best Therapist for Me?
Knowing where to start when looking for a therapist can be challenging. There are countless directories out there and it can feel like you’re endlessly sorting through a sea of faces and similar descriptions. While there’s a lot of things to consider when choosing a therapist, one of the best things that you can do is find a couple of people that resonate with you and schedule a consultation call. As difficult as it is for you to gauge a connection with a therapist by their bio, it’s just as challenging for us therapists to describe our work and approach in limited characters. Most therapists offer a free consultation call; take us up on it, we’d love to hear from you!
Once you’re able to speak with a potential therapist, you can better understand whether or not it will be a good fit. You have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about a therapist’s style. And arguably the most important thing, did you *vibe*?
The American Psychological Association Task Force on Evidence-Based Relationships and Responsiveness examined the latest evidence on relationship factors in therapy through a collection of meta-analyses. They concluded that the relationship with your therapist matters just as much as using the right treatment method. Therapy should be a safe space for self-expression and being vulnerable; you want to be working with someone that you can build trust with. Do you prefer a therapist who has very structured sessions? Or would you prefer a therapist who has more of a collaborative, laid back approach? Is humor in session important to you or do you like working with someone who keeps things more serious?
If you’re new to therapy, you may not know the answers to those questions quite yet and that’s okay. Let the therapist know that you’re new to therapy and we’d be happy to give you more of a rundown of what to expect. Generally, I find that it takes about 3-5 sessions to get a feel for whether or not a therapist is the right fit and then about 6-8 sessions to get into a good flow with that therapist.
While some therapists focus on more short-term work, some therapists like myself tend to work with their clients through multiple seasons of their life. At Element Counseling, I focus on helping individuals navigate life transitions, particularly around trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships and the unique challenges faced by athletes and healthcare providers. Learn more about the services offered here.
If you’re looking for a therapist in Ohio, Illinois, New York, Kentucky, South Carolina, or Florida and think that we may be a good fit, reach out to schedule a call.
**The content on this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, or medical advice. While I strive to provide valuable insights and resources, the information shared here should not be used as a stand-alone solution for mental health concerns or personal challenges.
If you are experiencing significant emotional distress or mental health issues, please seek the guidance of a licensed therapist or healthcare professional. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.
Your well-being matters, and professional support can make a meaningful difference.**
Element Counseling offers specialized support for the following:
