A Guide to Finding the Right Therapist for You

Embarking on the journey of therapy is a courageous step toward self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Choosing the right therapist is a crucial aspect of this journey, as the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in the effectiveness of the process. In this blog post, we will explore the many things you might consider to help you find the perfect therapist for your unique needs!

Define Your Goals:

Begin by clarifying your reasons for seeking therapy. Whether it's managing stress, coping with a life transition, or addressing mental health concerns, having a clear understanding of your goals will guide your search for the right therapist. 

Therapeutic goals might include (but are not limited to):

• I want to feel less anxious

• I want to make more friends

• I want to work through a particular traumatic event

• I want to improve my relationship with my parent

Research Therapeutic Approaches:

Therapists employ various therapeutic approaches. Take the time to research and understand different modalities. Identify which approaches align with your preferences and resonate with your goals.

Here are some therapy modalities to check out:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

• DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)

• IFS (Internal Family Systems)

• SE (Somatic Experiencing)

• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

These are not all the modalities that exist, or even all the modalities that our therapists specialize in! Check out our Counselors Page to see the wide variety of specializations that our therapists offer.

Credentials Matter (although maybe not in the way that you think):

• Ensure that the therapist you choose is licensed and has the appropriate credentials. Remember, however, that more credentials do not automatically equal a better therapist.  It can be easy to get hung up on finding a therapist with multiple degrees, years of experience, and various certifications, but if you don’t connect with that therapist then they won’t be as effective for you.  Your ideal therapist might be someone fresh out of graduate school, or it might be someone who’s been practicing for 30 years.  Be open, and try not to narrow your focus solely based on credentials. 

Specialization and Expertise:

• Different therapists specialize in various areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and more. Consider therapists who have expertise in the specific issues you are dealing with. Their experience in a particular field can greatly enhance the effectiveness of the therapeutic process. We have therapists with many different specialties, and you can find them by checking out the Counselors page on our website.

Personal Compatibility:

• This is the most important piece! The therapeutic relationship is a unique bond, and it's essential to feel comfortable and understood by your therapist. Schedule an initial consultation with one of our therapists to assess their communication style, empathy, and overall demeanor. Trust your instincts in gauging whether you feel a genuine connection.  Remember, just because you meet with a therapist once, twice, or even 10 times, you always have the option of meeting with someone else if it just doesn’t feel right. That said, it’s important to let the relationship settle in.  It can be tempting to engage in what we call “therapist shopping”, where you bounce around to different therapists either completing multiple consultation calls, and/or initial sessions.  While you can often get a good feel for someone off a phone call, it’s important to get into the office with a therapist and let the relationship breathe.  Of course, you always have the option to disengage with a therapist who isn’t a good fit, but give yourself a little time rather than trying to make that determination with little information.

Logistics and Practicalities:

• Consider practical factors such as location, availability, and fees. Determine whether you prefer in-person sessions or if online therapy is a more convenient option. Establishing a practical framework for your sessions will contribute to a smoother and more consistent therapeutic experience. At Therapy Austin we offer a wide range of fees between $65-$225 per session, and we offer appointments 7 days a week from as early as 6am to as late as 10pm, in 5 different locations all throughout the city.  

Finding the right therapist is a personal and individualized process. By considering your goals, researching therapeutic approaches, evaluating credentials, and prioritizing personal compatibility, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery with a trusted and supportive guide. Remember, the right therapist is out there, ready to accompany you on your path to wellness. Fill out a request form today to get started!