How to Choose the Right Therapist for You or Your Child

How to Choose the Right Therapist for You or Your Child

Starting therapy can feel like a big—and sometimes overwhelming—step. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of the healing journey. A strong therapeutic relationship can be the difference between feeling stuck and feeling truly supported.

But with so many different credentials, specializations, and therapy styles out there, how do you know who’s the right fit?

Let’s break it down.

1. Start With Your Needs

Before browsing directories or making calls, ask yourself:

• What am I hoping to get out of therapy?

• Is this for me, my child, or both?

• Are we dealing with a specific concern (e.g., anxiety, ADHD, life transitions)?

• Do I prefer in-person, virtual, or hybrid sessions?

• Do I need someone who accepts my insurance?

Getting clear on your goals helps narrow your options and ensures you’re looking for someone with the right experience.

2. Check Their Credentials and Specialties

Not all therapists have the same background. Some work primarily with adults, others with children or families. Some use specific approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, or solution-focused brief therapy.

Look for:

• Credentials (LMFT, LMHC, LCSW, PsyD, etc.)

• Specializations (e.g., child therapy, ADHD, anxiety, trauma)

• Experience with your specific concerns

At Sunshine Horizons Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC, for example, I specialize in working with children, young adults, and families—especially those navigating ADHD, anxiety, and/or life transitions.

3. Consider Their Approach and Personality

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some therapists are more structured, while others are more conversational. For children, warmth, patience, and creativity are essential. For adults, you might value a direct style—or prefer someone more reflective and gentle.

You can usually get a sense of a therapist’s approach through:

• Their website or social media

• A free consultation

• The first few sessions

It’s okay to ask questions like:

“Have you worked with clients facing similar issues?”

“What does a typical session look like?”

“How do you support children or teens who are reluctant to open up?”

4. Look for Comfort and Connection

The most important part of therapy is feeling safe. No amount of expertise can replace a genuine connection. You or your child should feel:

• Heard

• Respected

• Never judged

• Comfortable being yourself

It might take a session or two to know for sure—but trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking.

5. Practical Considerations Matter, Too

• Location & Availability – Is their schedule compatible with yours? Are they nearby, or do they offer virtual sessions?

• Insurance & Cost – Do they accept your insurance or offer sliding scale fees?

• Cultural Fit – Does the therapist respect and understand your cultural, religious, or personal background?

These details can impact how consistent and sustainable your therapy experience is.

Therapy Should Feel Supportive—Not Stressful

Choosing the right therapist can take time, but you don’t have to get it perfect right away. The important thing is that you’re taking a meaningful step toward care, clarity, and growth—for yourself or your child.

At Sunshine Horizons Marriage and Family Therapy, PLLC, I offer free consultations to help you explore whether we’re a good fit. Whether you’re looking for support with anxiety, ADHD, parenting stress, or simply need someone to talk to, I’m here to help.

Let’s find the right path—together.