Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already struggling. When you feel lost or find it hard to make decisions in everyday life, choosing a therapist can feel almost impossible. This blog is designed to make the process a little easier, helping you focus less on finding the “best” therapist and more on finding the right fit for you.
Whether you are looking for a therapist in Ballarat or prefer telehealth (online) counselling, the most important thing is finding someone you feel safe, supported and understood by. Therapy is personal, and the right fit will depend on your needs, preferences, circumstances and the kind of support you are looking for.
Step 1: Know what matters to you
Consider these five areas:
1. Practical considerations
- Location: would you prefer in-person support or online therapy?
- Availability: how quickly can you be seen?
- Cost and affordability: can you afford to see this person?
- Frequency of sessions: how regularly would you like to attend?
2. Personal preferences
Are there certain qualities that are important to me in a therapist. Ask yourself:
- Does age or gender matter to me?
- Would I prefer someone from a similar cultural background?
- Do I need someone who comes from the same community?
3. Therapeutic approach
Different therapists work differently.
- Humanistic: Collaborative, reflective, focuses on personal growth.
- Psychoanalytic: Explores unconscious patterns, relationships, and past experiences.
- CBT: Practical, structured, focused on thoughts, behaviours, and skills.
- ACT: Mindful approach to accepting self, thoughts and emotions rather than fighting them.
- EFT: Identify and feel emotions, transform negative interaction patterns, and foster secure, lasting emotional attachments.
- Integrative Therapy: Intentionally merges theories and techniques into one cohesive, personalised approach tailored to your unique needs.
There is no universally “best” approach – only the one that feels right for you.
4. Professional standards
Look for therapists who:
- Have recognised qualifications, such as a Diploma, Bachelor degree or Master’s degree
- Belong to a professional association, such as AHPRA, ACA or PACFA
- Engage in supervision and ongoing training
- Have clear policies around confidentiality and boundaries
You can ask them all these questions before you book a session.
Step 2: Create a shortlist
Find therapists through:
- Recommendations from trusted people
- Online directories
- GP referrals
- Google searches
Read their websites and notice who resonates with you.
Step 3: Have an initial conversation
Many therapists offer a brief phone call before booking.
You might ask:
- Have you worked with concerns like mine?
- What is your approach to therapy?
- How do you support clients to get the most out of sessions?
- Do you offer in-person therapy in Ballarat, telehealth appointments, or both?
But don’t just listen to their answers – notice how you feel talking to them.
Step 4: Try 1-3 sessions: is there connection and rapport?
The first few sessions are about assessing fit.
Ask yourself:
- Do I feel safe?
- Do I feel respected?
- Do I feel heard and understood?
- Do I feel hopeful after speaking with them?
Research consistently shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful therapy.
Step 5: Trust your experience
If it feels like a good fit, continue.
If it doesn’t:
- Discuss your concerns if you feel comfortable.
- Remember that not every therapist will be right for every person.
- It’s okay to not rebook and try someone else.
Step 6: Be open-minded and curious
Be prepared that the right therapist for you may surprise you. You might be a really intellectual, logical, analytical person but find that a therapist who uses a somatic or emotion focused approach to therapy actually helps you the most.
It’s not about being comfortable, but it is about feeling safe and supported in the uncomfortable.
The most important question
At the end of the day, ask yourself:
“Do I feel safe, understood, and hopeful in this person’s presence?”
If the answer is yes, you’ve likely found a therapist worth exploring the journey with.
Looking for individual therapy in Ballarat or online?
If you’re looking for individual therapy in Ballarat or would prefer telehealth counselling online, Reconnection Counselling & Psychotherapy offers a safe, supportive space to explore what you’re going through at your own pace.
Visit our individual therapy page to learn more about our approach or get in touch to enquire about booking an appointment.
