Making the decision to begin therapy is a powerful step. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or looking for the right therapist for your child, the process of choosing a provider can feel overwhelming. With so many types of therapy and different mental health professionals, how do you know where to begin?
At GROW Counseling, we support individuals and families across Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Peachtree City who are navigating this decision. The truth is, finding the right therapist isn’t about who’s “the best” in general—it’s about who is the best fit for your child or for your unique situation.
Here are some important considerations when learning how to choose a therapist that feels like the right match for your needs.
Start With Your Needs
Before you begin your search, take a step back and identify what you or your child need support with. Are you looking for help with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions? Does your child need support for behavioral challenges or social skills related to autism spectrum disorder? Are you seeking ways to improve family communication through family therapy?
Being clear on your goals will help you narrow down the type of therapist who may be most helpful.
Understand the Different Types of Therapists
There are several kinds of licensed mental health professionals, each with different training and expertise.
- Clinical social workers are trained in providing therapy and connecting clients with community resources.
- Counselors and psychologists often specialize in particular types of mental health concerns and offer approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Family therapists focus on relationships and communication patterns within families.
- Some therapists specialize in children and may use approaches like play therapy to help kids express feelings through creativity and play.
It’s important to note that school counselors can also be an excellent first step for children who may need additional support or evaluation. They can help you determine whether to pursue more specialized therapy.
Learn About Different Types of Therapy
Just as there are different professionals, there are also different types of therapy. Some of the most common include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): An evidence-based approach that helps people identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression.
- Play Therapy: Often used with younger children, this approach allows kids to process emotions, experiences, and trauma through play. A trained play therapist can help your child build coping skills in a way that feels natural and safe.
- Family Therapy: Focuses on relationships between family members, improving communication, and resolving conflict. A family therapist can work with the whole household, not just one individual.
When considering how to choose a therapist, think about which approach best aligns with your needs or feels like a good fit for your child.
Prioritize Comfort and Connection
One of the most important factors in finding the right therapist is whether you or your child feel comfortable with them. Therapy is a relationship, and like any relationship, the connection matters. Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship itself is one of the strongest predictors of success.
It’s okay to ask questions before committing:
- What is your experience treating mental health conditions like anxiety or depression?
- Have you worked with children who have autism spectrum disorder?
- What is your approach to family therapy?
- How do you typically involve parents when you’re acting as a therapist for your child?
A good therapist will welcome your questions and want you to feel confident in your decision.
Consider Practical Details
While expertise and approach are important, practical considerations also matter when you choose a therapist:
- Location: Is the therapist nearby, or do they offer virtual sessions?
- Availability: Do their hours align with your family’s schedule?
- Insurance: Are they in-network, or do they offer sliding-scale options?
These factors may not determine the therapist’s skill, but they can impact whether the therapy process feels sustainable long term.
Take Small Steps Forward
Choosing a therapist isn’t about finding the “perfect” fit on the first try. Sometimes, it takes a few sessions to know whether the relationship feels supportive. Give yourself or your child space to adjust and be open to reevaluating if something doesn’t feel right.
Remember: seeking therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking small steps toward support can make a big difference in how you or your child navigate challenges.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to therapy, one size doesn’t fit all. The most important factor in finding the right therapist is making sure the person feels like a partner in your journey, someone who listens, understands, and provides tools that are meaningful for your unique situation.
At GROW Counseling, our team of licensed mental health professionals includes clinicians trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, family therapy, and more. Whether you’re an individual seeking support for anxiety, depression, or a parent searching for the right therapist for your child, we’ll help you find a therapist who feels like the right fit.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, contact us today to connect with a therapist in Atlanta, Alpharetta, or Peachtree City.
