How do I Know a Therapist is a Good Fit for me?
Finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take for your mental health and well-being. Therapy is a deeply personal experience, and feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist makes all the difference. So, how do you know if a therapist is a good fit for you? Let’s break it down.
Trust Your Gut — But Give It Time
In your first few sessions, pay attention to how you feel during and after your conversations. Do you feel heard? Understood? Does the therapist create a space where you can be honest without judgment? While it’s normal to feel a bit nervous or guarded at first, over time, you should start to feel a growing sense of trust and connection.
Aligning with Your Needs and Goals
It’s helpful to find a therapist whose expertise matches your unique concerns. For example, if you’re a young adult navigating life transitions, struggling with anxiety or self-esteem, or dealing with substance use, working with someone who specializes in those areas can make a big difference. I work with teens, young adults, men, and families facing challenges like anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and substance use disorders. Having a therapist who understands the nuances of these experiences can help you feel seen and supported. Learn more about my areas of specialization here.
Therapy Approaches Matter
Different therapists use different therapeutic approaches, and finding one that resonates with you is key. My practice integrates techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy, and self-compassion approaches. DBT can be especially helpful if you struggle with intense emotions, self-destructive behaviors, or substance use, as it teaches skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. Attachment-based therapy explores how early relationships shape your current patterns, helping you build healthier connections with yourself and others. And self-compassion techniques encourage kindness and patience toward yourself, especially when facing difficult emotions or setbacks.
Practical Considerations
Location, availability, and logistics also play a role in finding the right fit. If you’re in Houston, TX, I offer in-person sessions in my Bellaire office. For those in Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, Maryland, Indiana, and Arizona, I provide virtual therapy, making it easier to access support from the comfort of your home.
Could I Be a Good Fit for You?
Finding a therapist is a personal process, and it’s important to find someone you feel aligned with. If you resonate with my specialties or therapeutic approaches, I’d love to explore whether we’d be a good match. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and my goal is to walk alongside you, offering support and tools to help you grow, heal, and move toward the life you want. If you’re curious, don’t hesitate to reach out — we can figure it out together. You can schedule a free consultation here.