Choosing a therapist is a big decision because working with the right one can be a positive and productive step to bettering your mental health.

Selecting a counselor or therapist can be a daunting task for some but it doesn’t have to be. When searching for a counselor, it is important to be aware of one main thing: EVERY counselor is different. 

This may seem like a simple reality but shopping for a therapist is about finding the right fit for you. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, and the professional that works well for someone else might not work as well for you. We all have different approaches to therapy, different styles of relating to our clients and different ways that we facilitate change. Your best friend may see a counselor that they absolutely love and recommend but that doesn’t mean that they will be the right one for you. 

Evaluate what is important.

The reality is, that you won’t know which counselor is right for you until you start your search. You’ll need to decide if you prefer telehealth or in-person counseling sessions. Is it important for you to have a male or female counselor? Think about if you insist on a Christian counselor or a counselor with a specific specialty/style.

For some people, it may be easier to identify what they don’t want in a therapist.

Maybe you know that you have had past trauma with a male in your life and so, perhaps, a male therapist wouldn’t work for you. Or vice versa. You may have had a therapist in the past who did or didn’t do certain things and you want to avoid or experience those things this next go-round in therapy. 

Being selective in your choice will help you get the most out of your time in therapy. It’s important to choose a therapist that possesses strong credentials and effective interpersonal skills that contribute to a feeling of trust and a sense of forward progress.

Make a phone call. 

This one may seem unnecessary in today’s technology, but you can tell a lot about someone over a phone. How receptive and personal is the office staff? Most practices will offer a phone consultation. From there you can evaluate the counselor’s communication style. Are they welcoming and answer your questions in a way you can understand? Do you feel they understand you? Find a counselor who shows an interest in getting to know you, who will consider your treatment preferences, and who will respect your decision-making process.

Meet our Restoration Counseling therapists

If you are reading this blog, that means you made it to our Restoration Counseling website. On the home page, in the upper right-hand corner, you will find a drop-down tab that lists our counselors. Each counselor has provided you with a brief introduction to them, a descriptor of their areas of focus, and a small biography about them. This will not only give you a snapshot of their style but also of them as a therapist and person which will likely help in your choice of a counselor. 

In addition, connecting with the right therapist doesn’t only fall on your shoulders. Our office will intake crucial information from you including your schedule, preferences, and needs in order to match you with one of our available counselors. 

Call us today to schedule your first therapy appointment: 504-913-5039