How to choose the right therapist for you

Ever wondered what makes a good therapist/client fit? These tips can be helpful in making sure you're on the right track...
 

• Recommendations from family and friends – know anyone who’s got a great therapist? Ask them for their name and contact details.
• Search them up - Most clinicians have an online presence. Google them, check out their website, and read up on their qualifications and special areas of interest. You want to work with someone who’s passionate and interested in the area you need help in eg. Perinatal wellbeing, adolescent mental health for example.
• Ask your GP – chances are they will have heard from their patients about ‘who’s good’ and can suggest someone who’s personality and interest areas fit with what you need.
• Keep an open mind! The right fit might include someone you haven’t thought of. Many clinicians work in the field of mental health, your perfect therapist could be not only a psychologist, but a mental health OT, psychiatrist, counsellor, school guidance counsellor, life coach etc.
• Most importantly – go with your gut instinct. If you meet a therapist, and it doesn’t ‘feel right’, or they just don’t seem to ‘get you’ then talk to your therapist about it, or just try someone else. Don’t give up, it’s important to feel listened to and like your therapist understands what’s going on for you.