We sat down with a couple of mental health experts and have these tips to keep in mind during your search for a therapist that meets your needs. See if their advice can help you.
If you’re considering therapy — whether to restore a relationship, recover from trauma, adjust to a new life phase, improve your mental health, or just talk with someone — finding the right therapist is the first hurdle to cross.
Researchers have found that the bond between you and your therapist is likely to have a big effect on your growth. That’s why it’s important to do your research, ask questions, and pay attention to your own responses in your search for the therapist right for you.
If you’re new to therapy, the number of mental health professionals can be overwhelming and confusing, but having some goals and tips in mind may help you find the best mental health professional that you need. Follow along for some tips we offer to make this process easier for you.
After figuring out what type of therapy is best for you, the next step is figuring out exactly how your therapist can help you.
Here are some tried-and-true steps to keep your goals in mind while searching for a therapist.
1. Think about your goals ahead of time
Whether or not you know your starting point, you’ve decided to look for a therapist.
Ask yourself what you want to accomplish and what you need help with. According to a
Having an idea of the areas you’d like to work on can assist your therapist in gaining insight into the areas you believe you need to work on, and this can help kick off therapy, said Ashley Peña, LCSW, executive director at Mission Connection.
“Developing goals can be a team effort between you and your therapist,†she said.
If you think medication may help with your symptoms, you’ll want to find a psychiatrist or practitioner who can prescribe medications.
Also consider which type of therapy could best suit your needs.
If you’ve heard that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy have been effective for others with your condition, you can look for a therapist with certifications or specialized training in those treatment approaches.
If you want to be part of a supportive network of people who understand your experiences, you may want to consider looking for a therapist who’s involved with support groups or group therapy sessions.
Your goals may change as you work with a therapist. It’s OK to talk with your therapist about changing the direction of your treatment plan as your needs evolve.
2. Consult your insurance and finances
Therapy can be costly, so it’s important to look at your finances and understand your budget. Also be sure to check whether your insurance plan offers help with mental health services.
If you plan to pay for therapy through your insurance plan, your first step might be to look through your plan’s network for a therapist.
It’s also a good idea to find out whether your insurance plan limits the number of sessions you can attend each year and whether using an out-of-network therapist will affect your out-of-pocket costs.
You can still work with a therapist outside of your health insurance, but it may be more expensive. However, if you develop a strong connection with a mental health professional not covered by your network, you can check whether your insurance will reimburse you for appointment costs.
Another option is when therapists offer sliding scales or free services, said Darren D. Moore, PhD, MAED, LMFT.
“Individuals might also consider training programs that may be connected with colleges or universities, like student interns who are working towards their degree, are typically supervised by a licensed professional and/or credentialed faculty member while they are providing services,†he said.
“Some therapy practices in the community also take on interns who can see clients, typically at a reduced cost or in some cases free of charge,†Moore added.
Learn more about finding a therapist in your health insurance network.
3. Ask someone you trust
A referral from a friend, colleague, or doctor you trust is another way to find a therapist who might be a good fit for you.
While a referral is a good place to start, it’s important to recognize that you may have different needs and goals with your therapy than the person giving you the recommendation. So, a good match for them might not be as beneficial to you.
Remember that finding a therapist can be an overwhelming and long process due to the current therapist shortage, Peña said, so try not to get discouraged if a personal referral doesn’t pan out.
“Starting somewhere is your first step,†she said. “Although it can be a challenging time identifying a therapist, therapy has never been more accessible due to telehealth services.â€
Telehealth services can be a great option if you don’t know anyone in therapy or can’t use a personal referral.
4. Explore local resources
If you’re part of a specific community, some resources may be available.
Some examples include:
- students with access to a university counseling center
- a workplace wellness or employee assistance program
- group or one-on-one therapy through a local advocacy organization
- faith-based treatment through a church, synagogue, mosque, or other worship center
Additionally, depending on where you live, there may be local support groups or organizations you can attend at neighborhood meeting spots, like a community center.
“For people who can’t afford traditional therapy, they may be able to take advantage of these groups that may be available in person or virtually, some of which may be completely free or at a reduced cost,†Moore said.
5. Use a reliable online database
Several mental health organizations maintain up-to-date, searchable databases of licensed therapists.
“If you feel overwhelmed and are having difficulty identifying a therapist through local referrals, searching online can provide immediate resources,†Peña said.
Your search could start simply by typing in your ZIP code to generate a list of counselors in your area. You may also be able to search for specialists, like marriage and family counselors or therapists who focus on drug and alcohol use.
Some of the most commonly used online search tools include:
6. Reach out to organizations that address your area of concern
If you’re looking for a therapist to help with a specific mental health condition, you might find local therapists through a national association, network, or helpline.
Here are a few examples of organizations that offer search tools to help you find a specialized therapist near you:
Additionally, many workplace organizations and trade unions have resources to help you identify professionals who can assist with mental health needs.
For example, the International Association of Fire Fighters offers help with mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use.
Resources for people of color
Access to culture-conscious therapists is important for your well-being. Here are some resources to consider when looking for a therapist:
- The Yellow Couch Collective, an online support group for Black women
- Therapy for Black Girls
- Black Mental Health Alliance
- The National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association, a nonprofit dedicated to the mental health and well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities
- Inclusive Therapists, an online tool that offers a simple way to find a therapist who focuses on intersectional identities
- WeRNative, which provides Native American youth with tools for holistic health and growth, including mental health resources
- Therapy for Latinx
7. Ask questions about the things that matter to you
Coming to therapy without any set expectations can be very beneficial, Peña said.
“Beginning therapy with an open mind and vulnerability can assist with identifying areas you’d like to work on,†she said. “Sometimes, the areas we think we need to work on are only the tip of the iceberg, and the true work may take place looking deeper.â€
That said, it’s important to ask your therapist some questions to assess whether they will be a good fit for you.
When you meet your therapist, whether online, on the phone, or in person, have some notes handy to remember anything you’d like to ask.
“Sometimes individuals believe they need to hold back on requesting certain information from mental health service providers,†said Dr. Matthew Boland, a licensed clinical psychologist. “But client/patient rights allow for getting all your questions and concerns met. Platforms should have built-in methods to help you address any concerns you have.â€
The American Psychological Association suggests a few questions to consider asking your therapist during your first session:
- Are you a licensed psychologist in this state?
- How many years have you been in practice?
- How much experience do you have working with people who are dealing with [the issue you’d like to resolve]?
- What do you consider to be your specialty or area of expertise?
- What kinds of treatments have you found effective in resolving [the issue you’d like to resolve]?
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America adds questions like these:
- If I need medication, can you prescribe it or recommend someone who does?
- Do you provide access to telehealth services?
- How soon can I expect to start feeling better?
- What do we do if our treatment plan isn’t working?
Note: If you’ve ever been abused by someone in authority or affected by trauma or racism, you may want to ask questions that help you find out whether a potential therapist is culturally informed and sensitive to your experiences.
Pay attention to red flags
Therapy is meant to be a welcoming and accepting space for any and all feelings that come up. Whether you see a therapist in person or virtually for the first time, you’ll want to pay attention to any factors that make you feel uncomfortable.
Some potential red flags to look out for include:
- Does the room make you feel physically uncomfortable? Does it feel private and secure?
- Are you experiencing overwhelming feelings of anxiety or panic? Some anxiety or nervousness is understandable, but you’ll want to communicate to your therapist if you’re experiencing symptoms of an anxiety or panic attack.
- Do you feel comfortable telling your therapist anything? Are they making you feel judged or uneasy in any way?
- Is your therapist completely present with you throughout your session? “If your current therapist seems unable to modify their approach to help you feel heard, it could be a helpful time to switch,†said Boland.
8. Pay close attention to your own responses
No matter how many professional accreditations your therapist has, your own feelings of trust and comfort should be your top priority. Will therapy be uncomfortable from time to time? Possibly. After all, you’ll likely be discussing difficult, personal topics.
But if you feel uncomfortable with your therapist for any other reason, it’s all right to look for someone else. You don’t need a reason to switch therapists. It’s enough that you don’t feel comfortable.
According to a 2022 Healthline survey on online therapy, 52% of respondents found a therapist that made them feel safe and comfortable on the first try. However, 48% of respondents met with two or more therapists before finding one that fit their needs and made them feel comfortable and safe.
Keep in mind the aforementioned potential red flags to determine whether your discomfort is just general nerves from starting therapy or if you’re truly feeling uncomfortable with your new therapist.
If you feel like you can’t talk with them honestly, or like they’re not fully listening, that might be reason enough to discontinue therapy with them.
Here are a few things to notice as you talk with your therapist:
- Does the therapist interrupt you, or do they listen carefully to what you’re saying?
- Does the therapist respect your time by being prompt to appointments?
- Does the therapist brush off or invalidate your concerns?
- Do you feel seen, heard, and respected during your session?
Our Medical Standards and Insights team has carefully researched and vetted over 11,000 products and services. We evaluate services for consistency with standards of care and best practices, and we look into each brand’s reputation before sharing products and services on Healthline.
To choose the online therapy platforms on this page, we considered all the platforms that passed our vetting process. Then, we personally tested some of them to narrow down our list even further.
Many therapists now offer teletherapy through their private practices. You can search for teletherapy the same way you would if you were looking for an in-person therapist.
Many online therapy services can be more convenient and affordable than in-person therapy. Weekly sessions typically range from $35 to $80 for online therapy, and whether the platform takes insurance varies based on the practice.
Below, find some online therapy platforms we scored, vetted, tested, and found useful.
Telehealth comparison chart
| Pricing | Insurance coverage | Highlights | What it’s best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetterHelp | • ranges from $65–$90 a week, depending on your plan and how often you see your therapist • billed monthly | no | • talk with your therapist via text, live chat, phone call, and video • easy to change therapists • financial aid available | quick and easy access to licensed professionals |
| Talkspace | Starts at $99 per month, depending on which plan you choose | some insurance plans may cover Talkspace costs | • no contracts, so you can cancel anytime • couples therapy and psychiatry services available | comprehensive mental health care |
| Teen Counseling | ranges from $65–$90 per week | no | • messages remain private, with some exceptions • great option for teens hesitant about beginning counseling | teenagers interested in starting counseling |
None of these fit your needs?
Check out these roundups for more options:
Your first therapy session might be a little uncomfortable, just like most new experiences, Peña said.
“Feeling anxious can be expected,†she explained, especially if you’ve never been to therapy.
The initial meeting with your therapist will likely consist of a series of questions and discussions to connect with the professional. You can share an overview of what brought you to therapy, what’s going on in your life currently, and any important details from your past that inform your present.
Peña suggests asking yourself the following questions during and after your first session to help you assess whether you two are a good match:
- Can I see myself being vulnerable with this therapist?
- Do I feel safe talking with them?
At the end of your first session, your therapist may want to schedule another appointment. If you know that you do not want to meet with them again, you can let them know at this time. You can say that while you appreciate their time, you don’t think it’s a good match right now.
Laramy Applekamp, Healthline employee and tester for BetterHelp, changed her therapist after a while because they weren’t “meshing.â€
“I felt like my initial therapist did meet all my preferences, but I wasn’t quite meshing with them on a personal level … after four sessions, I chose to switch therapists. It was a very simple, stress-free process,†she said.
If you’ve been seeing your therapist for some time but feel like you do not want to see them anymore, or you notice some red flags, you might consider sharing this with your therapist, if you feel comfortable, Peña said.
If you do not feel comfortable communicating this to them face-to-face, you can also text, call, or email them to let them know you’re no longer interested in seeing them.
Regardless of how you choose to tell the therapist, it’s important that you inform them instead of not showing up to your next appointment without an explanation.
The cost of therapy can depend on the type of therapy, the therapist’s experience, and whether you’re talking with a therapist in person or through teletherapy.
Therapists may charge between $100 and $200 per session for in-person appointments. In bigger cities, therapy can cost more. Some therapists may offer sliding scale rates. If you have insurance, you may pay a portion of the fee depending on your coverage.
Teletherapy is generally less costly. The price per session starts at around $50. Some platforms offer unlimited therapy with a weekly or monthly subscription.
Moore said you should see a therapist if you’re finding it challenging to cope with normal, day-to-day stressors, and if you feel like you may struggle with normal daily functioning.
“This could include feeling intense emotions, fear, anger, depression, anxiety, hopelessness, withdrawal, stress, issues with sleep and issues with food, among other factors that might interfere with or disrupt one’s ability to function normally on a day-to-day basis,†he said.
Peña added, however, that there doesn’t have to be a large event or a crisis to lead you to treatment.
“Therapy does not have to be a reaction; it can be a proactive step you take,†she said.
There are many types of therapy and types of mental health professionals. The type you choose depends on your needs and preferences.
Some common types of therapy include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors.
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): DBT combines elements of CBT with structured skill-building in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Psychodynamic therapy: This type of therapy focuses on your unconscious thoughts and emotions.
- Interpersonal therapy: The focus of interpersonal therapy is on your relationships with other people.
- Family therapy: This type of therapy helps families resolve conflict and improve communication.
- Group therapy: In this type of therapy, you meet with a group of people who share similar experiences.
- Art therapy: This type of therapy uses art to express emotions and help process trauma.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: EMDR is an interactive form of psychotherapy used to relieve psychological and trauma-based stress.
Therapy has several benefits, including improving mental health, resolving personal issues, and increasing self-awareness. Therapy can also help people learn new coping skills and manage stress.
Some people see therapy as a way to prevent mental health issues or as a way to address underlying causes of mental health conditions. Others use therapy to work through traumas or difficult life events.
Therapy is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and more.
Aside from making sure that a therapist has the proper credentials and comes well recommended, choosing a good therapist is a highly personal endeavor. You want to find someone who will be good for your specific needs.
Identifying areas of stress can be helpful when identifying the right therapist for you, Peña said.
“Most therapists specialize in specific areas, such as employment anxiety, social anxiety, family therapy, grief, and loss, etc.,†she said.
Choosing someone with experience helping others who are going through the same things you are can be very beneficial.
It’s OK to let your therapist know you don’t feel like you’re a good fit. In fact, your therapist can help you find another professional who might be a better fit for you. Or they may work with you to better meet your needs.
To help avoid mismatches in the future, Peña suggests asking to schedule 15-minute consultations with potential therapists to assess the connection before scheduling your initial appointment.
Whether you’re coping with grief, trauma, or relationship issues or want treatment for a mental health condition, finding a helpful therapist can make a big difference in your well-being.
To find a therapist who’s a good fit, start by considering practical matters, like licensure, insurance coverage, location, and specialties.
You may find that friends, colleagues, and healthcare professionals are a good source of referrals. You may also find options by using search tools provided by organizations that address your specific concerns.
When you’ve narrowed down your choices, you may find it helpful to think about your goals and questions. This way you can be sure you and your therapist are well matched and aligned on your treatment plan.
Ultimately, finding the right therapist is a personal matter. Human connection is at the heart of effective therapy, and you can build that sense of connection whether you talk with your therapist in person, on the phone, or online.