Finding the Right Therapist Is Key

Picture this. You walk into a therapist’s office. The walls are bare, painted a dull cream color. You sit down in what feels like “the chair.” The therapist asks why you are there and then says nothing. Silence fills the room. It gets so awkward that you finally gather the courage to say, “This silence is really awkward.” The therapist responds, “This is your time, not mine.”

Well, if I wanted to talk to a wall, I would have just stayed home. You leave feeling defeated and promise yourself you will never do that again.

This is my story. For a long time, I was turned off by therapy because of that bad experience. But eventually, I tried again and found the right fit.

Your therapist has to be right for you. If they are not, therapy can do more harm than good. I have heard horror stories from my clients about their past therapy experiences. I have been told, “You taught me more in a day than my last therapist did in a year.” That should not happen.

When I meet clients for the first time, I am very upfront about my approach. I am open, honest, and transparent. Therapy with me will feel like talking to a friend, but one who holds you accountable and gives you homework.

I will give you the tools you need to grow and heal, but it is up to you to use those tools between sessions. And yes, we will review your homework at the next appointment. There is no getting out of it.

Sometimes the homework is answering questions. Other times it might be something to think about or practicing new communication skills or grounding techniques. But I promise, you will always have something to work on.

Don’t settle for a therapist who does not feel like the right fit. Keep looking until you find someone who makes you feel heard, supported, and challenged in a way that works for you.

Therapy is a journey, and having the right guide makes all the difference.