Three Ways Seeing a Therapist is Like Dating

Navigating the therapist hunt can feel like a labyrinth, much like the quest for a life partner. How do we determine if someone is the right fit?

1. Finding the right fit

Therapists often list their services on a directory. Here, you can input specifics about your location, your struggles, and the type of therapy you're looking for. After that, it's up to the magic of the internet to find us potential matches.

But don't be fooled by the plethora of choices. You'll be presented with pictures, descriptions of who they are and how they can help. Suddenly, you're faced with pages of smiling strangers. You try to get a read on them, to see if they might understand you and help you effect the change you seek. Does this sound like a dating app yet? There's no swiping left or right here, though. What parameters help you narrow down your choices? A welcoming face, their fee, or perhaps that they seem to 'speak your language' – using words you do, addressing fears and concerns that mirror your own?

2. Fact-checking
​
It's crucial to be as informed and as safe as possible when seeking a therapist, just like when going on a date. Luckily, this information should be easier to access with a therapist.

Have you done your homework?

Ensure any therapists or counsellors you're considering are Registered members of a governing body.
What about their qualifications and training?
In the UK, a counsellor should have at least a degree or, at minimum, a level 4 diploma.

3. The Next Step
You've perused their profile, seen their friendly faces and got an inkling of their therapeutic style. But until you're in the thick of it, till you've dipped your toe into the therapeutic waters and attempted to forge a connection, can you really tell how it's going to be? What if you just don't feel comfortable? They might be a really lovely person, but you feel they just don't understand you. I told you it was like dating – it's got to be the right fit. You need to feel safe enough to share.

I can certainly help with the therapy side of things!

I'm more than happy to set aside 20 minutes for a no-charge introductory call. This will let us see if we've got a connection and allow you to understand how I work. It could be a good match, we've all got to start somewhere, right?

Get In Touch!