How to Find a therapist

We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.

– Brené Brown

Making the decision to start therapy isn’t easy, but it can be such a powerful step toward healing

and improving your life. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. The most effective

therapy happens when there is trust and alignment between the therapist and client. That’s why

it’s so important to find someone who is a good match for your specific needs, goals, and

personality.

If you’re in the process of searching for psychological services, here are some straightforward

steps to help you find a therapist who suits you best.

1. Figure Out What You’re Looking For

Spend some time thinking about what is bringing you to therapy and what you might be looking

for in a therapist. This could include the specific reason that you’re going to therapy as well as

where you are in life. Are you looking for help with anxiety, relationship challenges, or navigating

a major life transition? Consider what qualities or approaches in a therapist might make you feel

comfortable – whether that’s someone who offers a structured approach like Cognitive

Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or someone more focused on mindfulness and emotional support.

Clarifying these factors will help guide your search and ensure you find a therapist who fits your

needs.

2. Do Some Research

There are several online lists and databases, like Psychology Today, where you can search for

therapists based on criteria such as location, gender, availability, and specialities. You can also

filter by preferences like online vs. in-person sessions or specific demographics.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take some time to read their profiles or click through

to their websites. These are often carefully crafted to reflect the therapist’s approach and

personality, helping you gauge whether they might be a good fit.

3. Lock Down the Logistics

Whether you’re seeking in-person or online therapy, you’ll still need to find a provider who is

licensed in your state. On Psychology Today or therapy websites, you’ll be able to search by

location. Additionally, you may want to find a therapist who accepts your insurance. This

information will also be available online.

4. Reach Out and Schedule a Consultation

Once you find a provider who may be a match, the next step is to reach out. You can do this by

emailing or calling the number listed. Many therapists offer a consultation. This is generally a

15-20 minute mini session, which allows you and the potential therapist to learn a bit about each

other and determine if there is alignment in terms of needs and offerings.

5. Ask Questions and Keep an Open Mind

It can be helpful to view the first session or consultation as a get-to-know-you session to help you

determine if the therapist is a good fit for you. Use this time to ask any questions you may have

about their approach or experience. For more information about what to expect in your first

session, check out What to Expect (and How to Prepare) for Your First Therapy Session.

6. Decide if You Want to Continue

It’s perfectly okay to decide not to move forward with a therapist after the first session. If it wasn’t

quite right, you can let the therapist know and then go back to step 2. Remember, many people

chat with several providers before finding the perfect match for counseling services.

Psychotherapy for Women in Evanston, IL

Dr. Sarah Van Nostrand is a female therapist located in Evanston, IL who specializes in the theory

and practice of counseling and psychotherapy and helping women navigate many of life’s

challenges. With expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, Sarah is passionate about helping individuals

explore and embrace their identity.

Offering women's mental health therapy both online and in-person, some of Sarah’s specialties

include: women’s issues, anxiety, depression, relationships, perinatal and postpartum mood

disorders, parenting, infertility, divorce, trauma, and identity-affirming care. She accepts Aetna,

BlueCross, and BlueShield insurance.

If you’re interested in seeing if Sarah would be a good fit for your needs, please reach out today.

She’d love to chat with you.