Finding a therapist who is a good fit for you can feel daunting. Here are a few of the most popular ways to begin the search:
Word of mouth. If you feel comfortable, ask your friends and family members for the names of therapists they have had positive experiences with. If the therapist they recommend has no availability, that person will be able to provide you with the names and contact info of therapists they work with and trust.
Ask your doctor. Primary care physicians often have very strong connections to mental health providers in their area. They will likely be able to provide you with the names of local therapists they feel would be a good fit for you.
Search engines and databases. Using specific search terms like “therapy for anxiety in El Segundo” or “Los Angeles trauma counselor” will show listings of therapists who treat the issue you are looking to work through. Databases like Psychology Today and Therapy Den offer listings of local therapists where you can search for specific specialties. Now that many therapists provide virtual therapy, you are not limited to seeing someone in your area, and can see a therapist from anywhere in your state.
Once you have found a therapist who you are interested in meeting with, you can reach out to them to schedule a phone call. The initial phone call you have with them will give you a sense of how it will feel to work together. If you have any questions about therapy or about the therapist’s approach to your specific area of need, now is a great time to ask! If you leave the call feeling hopeful and understood, chances are that you have found someone who you will connect with.
The most important part of therapy is the relationship you build with your counselor. While it is important to find someone who specializes in working with your specific needs, it is the trust and connection that is created between you and your therapist that allows for meaningful work to occur.
The first step is the hardest to take, and it will be so worth the effort when you find a therapist you enjoy working with. Please reach out to me if you have any other questions about finding a therapist!
About the Author
I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice focused on helping young professionals heal from anxiety and burnout, and quiet the critical internal voices of perfectionism, so they can live more fulfilling, connected lives. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more.