Whether you are starting a new phase of life, overcoming a breakup, grieving a loss or looking for more peace of mind, finding the right counsellor is the first step towards better mental health.
The relationship between you and your therapist can make or break how useful your sessions are, and how much therapy will benefit you.
That’s why it is so important to ask the right questions, and pay attention to your own responses as you look for a therapist.
Here are some tips to consider when deciding if a therapist is right for you.
Have realistic expectations about a counsellor’s role
It’s easy to assume that a counsellor is going to tell you how to fix all your problems. Most counsellors do not provide advice, but rather teach you how to manage your emotions so you are able to make your own decisions. It’s like the Chinese Proverb “Give a man a fish and feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime.”
It can be surprising in your first session when you discover that your counsellor’s work is in fact not what you had expected. The most important thing to expect is to build a close relationship with your counsellor, so you are comfortable and open to sharing your thoughts and feelings.
Explore local resources
Your community will probably have resources that can better help inform your decisions. If you're a student, you may have access to a counsellor through your school, or your company may have counsellors through your HR department.
If you’d like your faith to inform your counselling session your place of worship may be able to provide you with a list of licensed therapists.
Consider methodology
Most counsellors adopt specific methodologies that they feel would be useful for their clients.
Some of the most commonly used approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Somatic Therapy, Couples Therapy and Attachment Based Therapy.
Before attending counselling, look into what you feel might work best for you. For example, those who are interested in exploring a more holistic perspective that includes the body, you may be more interested in sensorimotor psychotherapy or somatic experiencing, while those who are looking to alter thought patterns from a more analytical perspective may find more benefit from a counsellor who uses CBT.
Finding a counsellor who provides more than one different modalities that resonates with you will help you have the best possible experience. Sana Counselling offers humanistic therapy methods.
4. Reach out to organisations that address your specific needs
If you need to address specific issues please go to specific organisations that can help you directly to offer support and provide a list of certified therapists who specialise in what you are looking for. For example:
The National Eating Disorder information centre is a great resource for those tackling eating disorders.
In BC, trauma and abuse resources are available through the government website.
Indigenous community members can access counselling services locally or through the First Nations Health Authority. Contact your local Band or local Friendship Centre, or the First Nations Health Authority.
5. Think about your goals ahead of time
Therapy is a collaborative process. Think about what you want to achieve in therapy and how you and your counsellor can work together to achieve those goals.
If you are considering medication, you’ll want to find a physiatrist that is able to provide you medications. If you’ve researched CBT or Somatic Therapy and it sounds like the right fit for you, reach out to a counsellor who can specialise and is trained in those specific areas. If group therapy sounds like it would be helpful, look for a counsellor who offers community or group sessions.
Consider your needs, level of comfortability and end goals when choosing a therapist that is right for you.
6. Take advantage of free consultations
Many therapists will offer a free introductions session where you can openly discuss your needs and determine if it’s a good fit. Ask about what they specialise in, their approach, which techniques they might use and how long they’ve been practising. This can help you get a feel for how they may be able to help you, and how comfortable you will be speaking with them.
7. Listen to your gut
You can book an appointment with the best therapist in your city, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best therapist for you. No matter what, your feeling of comfort and trust should be your top priority. If you are uncomfortable with your therapist for any reason, you should find another one. A therapist should be like a close friend. Someone you are comfortable being vulnerable with and helps you feel seen, heard and respected during your sessions.
8. Give it a try and book a session
The only way to get an understanding if you’ll like a counsellor is to meet face to face.
Here are some questions you can consider asking in your first session or a consultation:
How many years have you been practising?
What do you consider to be your areas of expertise?
What kind of treatments have you found effective in treating x?
Do you accept insurance or work on a sliding scale system?
Remember there’s no commitment necessary, your counsellor understands that you’re looking for the right fit. There’s no pressure to book a second session. Meeting a counsellor and asking questions will help you to set realistic expectations and understand outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right counsellor takes time but it’s worth the investment to find the right person. Supporting yourself in this way is the beginning of a journey that will help you feel your best again.
If you are looking for a counsellor in the Metro Vancouver area or just for more information, please reach out. Our team is trained to deal with a variety of issues and help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
