Finding the Right Fit: How to Choose a Therapist for Your Child, Teen, or Yourself
Why it Matters
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most important steps toward mental and emotional well-being. A good therapist doesn’t just provide guidance - they create a safe space where you or your child can be heard, understood, and supported.
For children and teens, early access to therapy can make a lasting difference. Studies show that 1 in 7 children experience a mental health disorder each year, yet many never get the support they need. Even for adults, choosing the right therapist can impact progress. Research consistently shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship (feeling understood, respected, and supported) is the single strongest predictor of positive outcomes in therapy. Taking the time to find a therapist who truly fits your family’s needs isn’t just helpful - it can set the stage for meaningful, long-lasting growth and healing.
What to Consider When Choosing a Therapist
Here are important factors to consider when you're starting the search:
1. Qualifications & Licensing
Make sure the therapist is licensed in your state and has relevant credentials (e.g., LCSW, LMHC, Psychologist, etc.). You can ask directly about their license status.
Ask about their training or certifications in the type of therapy you’re interested in (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family therapy, trauma-informed therapy).
2. Experience & Specialization
Do they have experience working with children or teens?
Have they worked with specific issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, behavioral challenges)?
Do they offer services for the age group and issue you are seeking help with?
3. Therapeutic Approach & Fit
What kind of therapy do they use? (CBT, psychodynamic, play therapy, family systems, etc.)
Do you respond better to structured, goal-oriented approaches (like CBT) or to more open-ended talk therapy?
Consider “fit” in terms of personality, culture, language, values, communication style, and whether the therapist feels safe and comfortable with you or your child.
4. Practical Considerations
Insurance & Cost: Do they accept your insurance (in-network or out-of-network)? Is there a sliding scale for payment?
Scheduling & Location: Are appointments available at times that work (after school, evenings)? Is the office convenient, or do they offer telehealth / hybrid options?
Session frequency & length: How often will you meet? How long is each session? What is the expected length of treatment?
Mode: In-person vs. virtual vs hybrid — what works best for your schedule and needs?
5. Checking for Progress & Comfort
Does it feel respectful, safe, and collaborative?
After a few sessions, assess whether communication is good, trust is established, and goals feel clear.
Switching therapists is okay — it doesn’t mean failure. What matters is finding someone with whom you (or your child) can make meaningful progress.
Steps to Finding the Right Match
Here’s a suggested process:
Clarify your goals. What do you (or your child) want to achieve through therapy? Better coping? Managing anxiety? Improving relationships or behavioral issues?
Make a list of candidates. Use referrals (friends/family, doctors, pediatricians, school counselors), online directories (Psychology Today, APA, etc.), or trusted local practices.
Narrow by logistics. Insurance, location, availability, modality (in-person or telehealth).
Do an initial consultation. Many therapists offer an intake or phone screening. Use that to ask questions about their background, style, and what to expect.
Give it a few sessions. Check-in: Do you feel heard? Is progress being made? Are you comfortable? If not, it’s okay to look for someone else.
Monitor progress & revise as needed. Therapy is a partnership. Communicate openly with the therapist about what’s working and what isn’t.
At Long Island Behavioral Health, we understand that finding the right therapist is a deeply personal decision for children, teens, and adults alike. Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual and family.
We specialize in a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, trauma, and relationship struggles. Whether you prefer in-person sessions or convenient telehealth options, we strive to make therapy accessible and flexible to fit your schedule.
Our mission is simple: to help every client feel heard, supported, and empowered. From the very first consultation, we work with you to create a personalized plan that meets your goals and promotes meaningful growth.
Take the first step toward better mental health today. Reach out to Long Island Behavioral Health to schedule a consultation and discover how the right therapist can make a lasting difference for you or your child.