7 Questions to Ask When Choosing the Right Therapist for You
Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal decision—and one that can make a big difference in your healing journey. Whether you're navigating anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, or relationship struggles, working with someone you connect with and trust is essential. At Pacific Pines Wellness, our Langley counsellors understand how important that fit is.
If you’ve been Googling “counsellor near me” or “therapist near me” and feel unsure where to start, these seven questions can help guide you in choosing the right counsellor for your needs.
1. Do they specialize in the challenges I’m facing?
Therapists often have different areas of focus. Some work with youth, while others specialize in trauma, relationships, or ADHD. Look for someone experienced in supporting the specific concerns you’re bringing to therapy—like life transitions, anxiety, or identity exploration. At Pacific Pines Wellness, our therapists work with a wide range of issues, including men’s mental health, neurodiversity, and LGBTQ+ affirming care.
2. What is their therapeutic approach?
Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Common modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and Integrative approaches that combine different methods. Ask potential therapists how they work and whether their approach feels aligned with your goals and personality.
3. Do I feel safe, seen, and heard?
Your connection with your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of progress in therapy. In your initial consultation or first session, reflect on how the therapist made you feel. Were they warm, respectful, and attentive? Did you feel accepted without judgment? Finding a therapist who creates a safe, inclusive space is especially important if you’re navigating sensitive topics like trauma, identity, or emotional regulation.
4. Are they LGBTQ+ affirming and neurodiversity-informed?
If you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or are neurodivergent (such as ADHD or autism), look for a therapist who has specific training or experience in these areas.
5. What are their credentials and experience?
In British Columbia, regulated counsellors typically hold designations like RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor) or CCC (Canadian Certified Counsellor). It’s helpful to ask about their background, training, and years of experience. If you're seeking someone with ADHD-specific training, look for certifications such as ADHD-CCSP (ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider).
6. What is their availability and location?
Therapy works best when it fits your lifestyle. Ask about session availability, whether they offer in-person or virtual therapy, and if their office is conveniently located. Convenience can help you stay consistent with appointments.
7. Do they offer a consultation?
Many therapists offer free 15- or 20-minute consultations so you can get a feel for their style before committing. Use this time to ask any lingering questions and to see if you feel comfortable.
Ready to Start Therapy?
Finding the right therapist is the first step toward positive change. Whether you're navigating a life transition, managing anxiety, exploring identity, or seeking support with ADHD, our team of counsellors in Langley are here to help. We’re committed to creating a welcoming, affirming, and personalized experience for each client.
Reach out today to book a free consultation with a counsellor at Pacific Pines Wellness. We’d be honoured to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
References
Norcross, J. C., & Lambert, M. J. (2018). Psychotherapy relationships that work. Oxford University Press.
American Psychological Association. (2023). Tips for choosing a therapist. https://www.apa.org
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. (2023). Finding a Counsellor. https://www.ccpa-accp.ca
