Hello and welcome! Perhaps you have landed here because you are trying to answer this very question. How does someone pick the right therapist for them? Especially with so many to choose from!
There are many different theoretical models of therapy – some therapists align to a specific theory (this can also be referred to as a modality) such as Person Centred or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). And some therapists (like me) may choose to work with a number of theories and modalities – we are referred to as Integrative Therapists. So how do you know what this means for you as the client?
You may already have an idea of the style of therapy you would like to explore. Are you perhaps looking for a therapist who can provide a space for you to offload, knowing that with time and acceptance, you will likely figure it out as you talk? Or maybe you’d like a therapist who can provide a certain structure for sessions and target specific issues such as low self-esteem or social anxiety? The decision is a very personal one and it may mean that you speak with a few therapists before deciding which approach feels best for you.
Many therapists - like myself - offer clients a free 15-minute introductory phone call, to give them an opportunity to put a voice to a name and get an idea for how a session may feel. This can be enough to make a choice to book a session.
When I meet a client for the first time, I see my job as to understand their reasons for coming into therapy, their hopes for how they may feel coming out of therapy and to give them an idea of exactly how I can help. Most importantly it is a chance for the client to see if they feel they can connect with me and if they feel comfortable in the therapy room.
If you would like to schedule an introductory call, please don’t hesitate to contact me.