How to Find the Right Therapist

Whether you’re going through a tough time, struggling with your mental health, or simply want a safe space to talk and grow, seeking out a therapist can be a lifeline. But with so many options out there—different types of therapy, personalities, credentials—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason to see a therapist. You don’t need to be in crisis to seek help. Therapy can benefit anyone at any stage of life. Here are just a few reasons you might consider reaching out:

• You’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Maybe you’re not sleeping well, your thoughts feel heavy, or it’s hard to get through the day.
• You’ve experienced trauma or loss. Whether recent or long ago, unresolved grief or trauma can take a toll on your emotional well-being.
• You’re struggling in your relationships. Conflict, loneliness, or patterns that keep repeating themselves can all be signs you’d benefit from professional insight.
• You want to understand yourself better. Personal growth, self-awareness, and building healthy coping skills are all powerful reasons to start therapy.
• You’re going through a major life transition. Moving, changing jobs, becoming a parent, or adjusting to a new phase in life can bring up complicated feelings.

There is no “right” reason to see a therapist—only your reason. And that reason is enough.

What to Look for in a Therapist

Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. It’s not just about credentials—although those matter—but also about the connection you feel. Therapy works best when you feel safe, seen, and understood.

Here are a few key qualities to look for:

• Licensing and credentials. Your therapist should be a licensed mental health professional. Depending on your needs, this could be a psychologist (PhD or PsyD), licensed professional counselor (LPC), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or psychiatrist (MD or DO). Don’t hesitate to ask about their training, specialties, and experience.
• Experience with your concerns. Some therapists specialize in specific issues like trauma, anxiety disorders, addiction, grief, or relationship problems. If you have a particular concern, look for someone who has experience treating that issue.
• Therapy style and approach. There are many types of therapy—cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, and more. Some therapists are more structured and goal-oriented, while others focus on exploring emotions and past experiences. You don’t need to know the ins and outs of each style, but ask about how they typically work with clients.
• Cultural competency and inclusivity. Your therapist should respect your background, identity, and values. If it’s important to you to work with someone who understands your culture, race, gender identity, religion, or sexual orientation, that’s valid. Feeling understood is essential.
•  A comfortable connection. This one might be the most important: you should feel at ease with your therapist. You don’t have to be best friends, but you should feel safe, respected, and not judged. A strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for healing.

How to Find the Right Therapist for You

Finding a therapist can take a little legwork, but it’s worth it. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:

• Clarify your needs. Think about what you’re hoping to get out of therapy. Are you looking for help with a specific issue, or do you just need someone to talk to? Do you want short-term help or a long-term relationship? Knowing your goals can help narrow your search.
• Use reputable directories. Start by searching through trusted websites like PsychologyToday.com, TherapyDen.com, or GoodTherapy.org. You can filter by location, specialty, insurance, and other preferences.
• Check with your insurance. If you have health insurance, your provider’s website will usually list in-network therapists. Calling the number on the back of your card can also help you understand what’s covered.
• Ask for recommendations. Talk to your doctor, a trusted friend, or even someone you know who’s in therapy. Personal referrals can lead you to great therapists you might not find otherwise.
• Reach out and ask questions. Once you’ve found a few options, reach out and ask for a consultation call. Ask questions about their experience, therapy style, what a typical session consists of, and whether they offer in-person or virtual appointments.
• Trust your gut. After your first session or even that first phone call, ask yourself if you felt understood or safe with that person. If not, that’s okay. You’re allowed to try someone else. Sometimes you have to meet a few people before you find the right match.
• Be patient. Starting therapy can feel vulnerable. It takes courage to ask for help, to sit across from someone and say, “I’m not okay.” But taking that first step is an act of strength, not weakness. Be patient with yourself during this process. It might take time to find the right fit, but when you do, it can change your life. You deserve support, healing, and someone in your corner who truly gets you.

We’re Here to Help

At Creekside Behavioral Health in Kingsport, Tennessee, we are here to guide you. Whether you’re looking for outpatient therapy, more intensive inpatient care, or just someone to talk to, we’ll meet you where you are. Please contact us today to find the answers you’re looking for and get the help you need.