How do I find a Therapist?

Choosing a Therapist by Recommendation: Why It Matters

When you're seeking a therapist, the options can feel overwhelming. With so many profiles, specialisms, and approaches to choose from, where do you begin?

One of the most trusted ways to find a therapist is through personal recommendation. Whether it's a friend, family member, GP, or another professional who suggests someone, recommendations can offer reassurance and clarity in what can feel like an uncertain process.

Here’s why choosing a therapist by recommendation can really matter:

Trust and Credibility
A recommendation usually comes from someone who has had a positive experience or knows the therapist’s reputation. This creates an initial sense of trust—something that takes time to build in therapy but is essential to its success.

Shared Values or Approach
If someone you respect recommends a therapist, there’s a good chance they align with your values or needs. This might mean a warm, relational style, a practical, goal-focused approach, or a deep understanding of specific challenges like trauma or anxiety.

Saves Time and Emotional Energy
Searching for a therapist can be time-consuming and emotionally draining—especially when you’re already struggling. A trusted recommendation can help you feel confident you're starting in the right place.

A Human Connection from the Start
Therapy is ultimately about relationship. A recommendation often brings a sense of personal connection before you even walk through the door.

That said, it's still important to trust your own instincts. Even a highly recommended therapist needs to feel like the right fit for you. You deserve to feel safe, heard, and understood—so take your time and give yourself permission to explore until it feels right.

Sometimes, the best path to healing begins with someone simply saying, "I know someone who might help."