What to Look for in a Therapist (And When to Move On)

Finding the right therapist can take some trial and error. Here are some things to look for in a therapist and some signs that he or she is a bad fit for you.

Let's take five minutes to see this week in a new light. By Wendy Rose Gould & Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief Top of Mind What to Look for in a Therapist (And When to Move On)   That first step into a therapist's office can feel like a giant leap, but it's a crucial move in your journey to improving your mental well-being. Choosing to go to therapy signals that you're ready to confront certain issues and make a true investment in both you and your relationships.   That said, finding the right therapist can take some trial and error. Below we've outlined what to look for in a therapist and have provided some signs it's time to consider working with someone new.   Therapy is your space, and you are the leader of your growth and change."  — JENNIE MARIE BATTISTIN, LMFT    What to Look for in a Therapist Every therapist has their own approach and personality; it's important to find someone that aligns best with your needs.   When you're with the right therapist, you will feel respected, important, and safe. It should also feel like you're making consistent progress—even if it's gradual—toward clearly outlined goals. Choosing a therapist that specializes in the issues you want to confront is important and can expedite progress. Signs to Move on From a Therapist If you experience any of the following issues with your therapist, it may be time to seek someone new: You cannot rely on them They're unethical or unprofessional You feel judged because of your religion, orientation, profession, or mistakes Conversations or advice feel too pushy You don't feel like you're being pushed enough You're not making progress after several sessions It can be uncomfortable to end a therapist relationship and switch to someone new, but many therapists have had these conversations before. Your therapist may also be able to help you find someone who's a better fit.    On the Bright Side Ways to Stay Positive This Week Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body  Today, take five minutes to think about your existing client-therapist relationship. In what ways have you been able to make progress since beginning therapy? Does the relationship feel like a good fit? If you enjoy your time in therapy and are making progress, keep at it! If you feel progress is stagnant, it may be time to work with something new. Alternatively, speak to your therapist about your concerns and work to create the best path forward together. Whether you're seeking a therapist for the first time or are considering a switch, read through our thorough guide on How to Find a Therapist. It dives into the grittier details you may want to consider beforehand. Forget Solitaire for a second and pick up School of Life's Know Yourself: Cards for Self-Exploration. Designed for solo self-improvement, the deck features 60 cards each with a prompt that helps you better understand yourself.   This Week on The Verywell Mind Podcast   On tomorrow's episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I talk with actor Matthew McConaughey about his hugely successful memoir, "Greenlights."   Tune in to hear him share his personal stories and strategies for managing setbacks, overcoming obstacles, and turning low points into valuable learning experiences.   Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts / RSS Read These Next What to Do When You Need Someone to Talk To READ NOW How to Know When It's Time to See a Therapist READ NOW Self-Awareness: How It Develops and Why It Matters READ NOW Spread the Light Share the newsletter with someone you know to make their day a little brighter. SHARE We're open to suggestions! If you have any feedback about this newsletter, let us know at feedback@verywell.com.     You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Healthy Mind newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here. If someone forwarded you this email, you can subscribe here!   A DOTDASH BRAND 28 Liberty Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10005   © 2021 Verywellmind.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy