Tips on Finding the Right Therapist: Who Is the Best Fit?

Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. If you’re searching for a therapist in Allison Park or the greater Pittsburgh area, you may be wondering: How do I know who I’ll connect with and trust on such a personal level?

As a therapist with over five years of experience, and as someone who has also searched for my own therapist, I understand both sides of this process. Below are practical, supportive tips to help you find a therapist who truly feels like the right fit for you.

#1 - Identify What You’re Struggling With

Before beginning your search, take a moment to reflect on what you’re hoping to get support with. Are you experiencing:

·       Anxiety or chronic stress

·       Depression or low motivation

·       Life transitions or relationship challenges

·       Trauma or past experiences that feel unresolved

If your concerns are more specific, it’s important to look for a therapist who specializes in that area. Many therapists list their specialties on their website or professional profile, which can help narrow your search and increase the likelihood of meaningful progress.

"Anything that's human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable" - Fred Rogers'

#2 - Decide Between In-Person or Virtual Therapy

Next, consider whether you prefer in-person therapy, virtual therapy, or a combination of both.

Many therapists now offer virtual-only services, which can be convenient and flexible. However, if face-to-face connection is important to you, you’ll want to focus on therapists offering in-person sessions.

Our practice is in Allison Park, and we often see clients who drive 20–30 minutes for in-person therapy because that connection feels valuable to them and fits their schedule. Knowing how far you’re willing to travel can help you refine your search.

#3 - Read the Therapist’s Bio and Get a Feel for Their Style

Once you’ve narrowed down a few options, spend time reading each therapist’s full bio. While you won’t get the full picture, you can often learn about:

·       Their training and experience

·       Areas of focus

·       Therapeutic approach

·       Overall tone or “vibe”

This step can help you decide whether someone feels like a potential match before reaching out.

#4 - Use the Free Consultation

Many therapists offer a free 15-minute phone consultation, and this can be an incredibly helpful part of the process. During this call, you can:

·       Ask questions about their approach

·       Share briefly what you’re looking for

·       Notice how comfortable you feel talking with them

If you like how they communicate and feel at ease, that’s often a good sign to schedule an initial session.

#5 - Trust the Process and Your Gut

After your first appointment, give yourself a few sessions to assess the fit. By the second or third session, most people have a sense of whether they feel:

·       Safe and understood

·       Comfortable being open and authentic

·       Supported without judgment

If you don’t feel that connection, it’s okay, and encouraged, to continue your search. Therapy works best when you’re with someone who creates a space where you can truly be yourself.

Finding the right therapist can take time and effort, but that upfront work is worth it. When you choose a therapist who aligns with your needs, values, and preferences, you're setting yourself up for meaningful and lasting growth. If you’re looking for a therapist in Allison Park or the Pittsburgh area, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

Your mental health matters and you deserve the right support.