Have you been considering seeking help but are not sure how to find the right therapist to work with?

Therapy can involve a significant investment of time, money and energy and it is important to take your time and to do your research in selecting the right professional.

Time and again the research on positive results in therapy reveals that the relationship between the client and therapist is far more important than any specific approach or technique.

It is essential that you find someone you feel comfortable to work with and can develop a trusting, collaborative relationship with.

A psychologist is an expert on the process of change and has different approaches and strategies to draw from, depending on their training and areas of specialization. However, you are the expert on your own life and on what you are, or are not, open to. It is important to feel comfortable to ask any questions you may have in order to make an informed decision about any options presented and to be able to talk about what is, and is not working for you.

The experience and training of a psychologist can be another important factor to consider in selecting the right professional to help you to achieve your goals. There are many different areas of expertise and experience within the general field of psychology. I would recommend looking for someone who has training in the area related to your goals, and experience in successfully working with others with similar concerns. Again, do not be afraid to ask questions about professional qualifications and experience. Personally, if I do not have the required training or experience in a certain area, I am more than happy to help someone to connect with another professional.

Professional profiles, such as on psychologist listing services, websites and other online sources can help you to get a sense of a psychologist’s approach and personality. Many psychologists also offer an initial brief phone or email consultation to help potential clients get a sense of whether they may be the right fit for them.

Financial concerns can be another area many people are hesitant to discuss upfront.

I would recommend having an open and honest conversation about what is manageable for you financially in terms of creating a plan to reach your goals. I would also recommend considering the costs of not addressing your concerns, not only in terms of financial costs but also the emotional toll that can affect all areas of your life, such as important relationships and your ability to live up to your potential. Treating concerns is often less expensive in the long run than leaving things unaddressed.

Therapy is an investment and no one can decide for you if it is worth it or not. Planning the right support should be a collaborative process between you and your therapist to create a plan to meet your goals. For example, this could involve creating a plan with additional resources and self-help materials for you to work on between sessions, spacing out sessions and/or creating a plan for coordination or referrals to other resources and services in the community. This can be a conversation that may need to be revisited and reassessed in light of any significant financial changes, such as changes in benefit coverage, employment situations and so on.

In summary, if you are considering seeking psychological services it is worth putting the energy into finding someone who you feel comfortable with who has demonstrated success in working with others with similar concerns.

Be open to asking questions and talking openly about any concerns you may have and this will help to assist you in finding the right person to work with. You have the guidance you need within you to make the right choice.

Wishing you all the best on your journey,

Katie