Finding the right counselor can make a meaningful difference in your experience with therapy. Learn what to look for in a therapist, where to search, and how a consultation can help you decide if a counselor is the right fit for you.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Once you’ve found a few potential counselors, look beyond location and availability. Consider whether they regularly work with the concern bringing you to counseling. Someone looking for couples counseling may want a therapist who specializes in relationships and understands relational dynamics, while a parent looking for support for a teenage may prioritize experience working with teens and families. Credentials matter, and so does finding someone whose experience, approach, and personality fit what you need.
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. You can also spend some time learning about the counselor before you call. Read their bio, learn about their style, and look for someone whose personality and experience seem like they could be a good fit for you. 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!
Finding the Right Counselor Starts With the Right Fit
Credentials and experience matter, but so does the personality of the person sitting across from you. You should be able to talk openly, ask questions, receive honest feedback, and develop a counseling relationship that helps you do meaningful work.
That’s why Thrive Counseling offers a free phone consultation before you get started. It’s an opportunity to tell us a little about what you’re looking for, ask questions, and determine whether one of our counselors may be a good fit for you.
You can also meet our counselors and explore our services for individuals, couples, teens, and families before deciding what feels right for you.
Thrive Counseling provides virtual counseling throughout Florida (Orlando, Lake Nona, Winter Park, Windermere)and Georgia (Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton), with services also available in New Jersey (Princeton, Ridgewood) and South Carolina (Mount Pleasant, Daniel Island).
Finding a counselor is an important decision. You don’t have to make it based on a directory profile alone. Schedule a consultation and get to know us first.
