Find the Right Therapist for You

Certain types of therapy may be a better fit for you than others, depending on the issues you want to address and your personal preferences. And remember, many therapists use more than one approach. Here are a few types of therapy that research has found can be effective.

You often don’t need a referral to see a psychotherapist, but your primary care provider might be able to make suggestions, Rand says. You can also search online for a therapist through your insurer’s website, the American Psychological Association, or the “Find a Therapist” search bar at psychologytoday.com.

Therapists include not just psychologists, who usually have a PhD or PsyD, but also licensed professional counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists. Psychiatrists are physicians focused on mental health. They may partner with therapists or practice therapy on their own, often prescribing medications if needed.

Different types of training do not necessarily mean one type of therapist is better than another. Avoid people without a specialized degree or a license, however.

Some therapists offer free consultations before you commit. Use that time to learn about the therapist’s interpersonal style and see how comfortable you feel. If at any point you don’t think it’s a good fit, be honest: Rand says your therapist shouldn’t take it personally, and they may help you find someone new.

Eventually, you might feel like you don’t need therapy at all—and that’s the point. “The goal in therapy is to become independent and live your life to the fullest as you replace the therapist with other strategies,” Schmid says.