I honestly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is the most important thing in the counseling relationship. There is no way you’ll want to talk to someone that you don’t like or feel comfortable with, and if you’re not willing to open up and share what’s going on, then counseling will be a waste of both time and money for you. I don’t like waste any more than you do, and I sincerely want for you to have a healthy, successful, helpful counseling experience!

Here are three tips to help you find a good counselor:

1. Psychology Today (psychologytoday.com) is a great online counselor directory.  You can search for counselors in your area and find out some things about them and their work with clients.
2. Colleges tend to have a list of counselors and helpful resources in their community.  I graduated from and used to work at UCF (the home of the 2018 National Champs!), and I know their counseling program has an extensive list of great referral sources.  So, contact the counseling department of your local college campus; I’m sure they’d be able to help point you in the right direction.
3. Ask around!  Word of mouth is probably the best way to find a good counselor.  People tend to share when they either love or loathe someone they’ve seen… So if you ask for a recommendation, you’re bound to be led to someone great.

The last important piece of advice I have for you is for you to call your new potential counselor and speak with them on the phone for a few minutes.  I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation, and I know many others do, too.  Take advantage of this opportunity to talk with the counselor and see if you like them.  If you feel comfortable, schedule your first appointment!

Counseling is such a great thing… I hope you find the help, and person, you’re looking for!