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How To Choose A Therapist

Deciding to see a therapist is a brave choice. Picking the right therapist may seem daunting, but it’s essential. The initial meeting is a chance for both you and the therapist to get to know each other.

So — you’ve decided to see a therapist. Initially, it can seem challenging to pick a therapist. It doesn’t have to be. Most therapists will offer a consultation or initial assessment where you can share what’s on your mind and why you are seeking treatment. This is a chance for them to get to know you. But — guess what? This is just as much a chance for you to get to know them.

Finding A Therapist In Aurora, CO

Finding a therapist who is a good interpersonal fit will set you up for success in treatment. Other details, such as what degree they have, the letters after their name, which treatment approaches they practice, and how long they have been in the field, may contribute to the quality of your relationship with them. However, research has repeatedly found that the therapeutic relationship is the largest contributing factor to client success in therapy.

There are a couple of things to consider when assessing whether you and a possible therapist would be a good fit. First of all, do you feel that you can trust your therapist? The more trusting a relationship you build with them, the more you can share with them, and, in turn, the more information they have to help you. Perhaps reflect on how you feel when a therapist asks you a question. Do you feel comfortable, and answer seamlessly? Do you have the urge to hold anything back? Do you feel confident that they will listen without judgment? The answers to these questions may help you gauge if the professional is someone with whom you would like to work.

Secondly, do your values align? Every person is unique, so there’s no reason to expect that you and your therapist will have the same values. It can be helpful, however, if you both share some common values. What is important is that you feel as though the therapist understands your values and can help you work toward practicing them as you work together. For example, do you value interpersonal relationships? Would you like to focus your treatment on improving relationships? A therapist who is trained in family systems theory may be uniquely suited to assist you because they also value the interpersonal context of mental health concerns.

Thirdly, is the therapist present and available to hear your concerns? We all lead busy lives, with frequent multi-tasking. It’s natural for our attention to focus on many different things throughout the day. However, when you go to online therapy, it is a time that you have specifically set aside for you to share challenging and sometimes vulnerable parts of yourself. Ideally, your therapist will be mindfully present and attend to your concerns. Assess whether you feel genuinely seen and heard in the therapy room.

These three questions can serve as a guide when assessing if a therapist is a good fit for you. You are going to be engaging in some important, possibly even life-changing work, so it makes sense to work with someone with whom you feel comfortable. Good luck finding your next therapist!

Choosing a therapist is about finding an interpersonal fit. Trust, shared values, and the therapist’s presence matter most. Reflect on your comfort and confidence during interactions. Your journey to well-being is collaborative—find a therapist aligned with your values. At our esteemed center, a dedicated team of experienced psychologists in Aurora is ready to provide exceptional therapy services tailored to your needs.

By: Miranda Chatfield, LMFT – Peak Psychological, Aurora Colorado Location

Schedule a consultation with Peak Psychological Services and take the first step towards your mental health therapy in Aurora today. If you have any questions or are ready to embark on your journey towards well-being, don’t hesitate to contact us. Feel free to email [email protected] or give us a call at (719) 623-2356. We look forward to working together with you to achieve positive changes and enhance your overall well-being.