How To Choose A Therapist

Looking for a therapist is a big step!  It takes a lot of courage to explore emotions, thoughts, experiences, etc.  This process can become even more daunting when sorting through page after page of potential therapists! 

When you factor in full caseloads, wait times, free consults, and trying to find the right “fit,” it is no wonder why taking the first step is often the most difficult.

What To Consider When Looking For A Therapist

When exploring options for your psychotherapy and wellness, there are a few things to consider.

Online vs. In-Person care:  Research indicates that online therapy is as effective as in-person care for many presenting concerns.  You may want to consider whether you have privacy in your home, access to reliable internet, or if you don’t mind the commute to the office.

While not every presenting problem is ideal for online care, your therapist can assess if online therapy is right for you and support you in making that choice.

Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist – What does this mean!?  A Qualifying member of the CRPO is a Registered Psychotherapist who is under the supervision of another professional.

These members are typically new to the profession and still working towards independent practice.  I always say working with a Qualifying member is like getting two heads for the price of one! 

Therapeutic Orientation:  Therapists work from various orientations (i.e., CBT, EMDR, Narrative, EFT, employment counselling, individual therapy and the list goes on and on!).  It might be helpful to ask how they may see their preferred approach to care applied to your situation.

Free consults: Finding a good one is like finding a good fit—you may have to try a few styles on! If a free consultation is offered, consider meeting them and seeing if their style fits you!

Once connecting with your therapist, you continue your journey of wellness.  As one of my university professors once said: Anyone who opens the door to therapy is up to something big.