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Starting therapy is a big, brave step — but finding the right psychologist can feel a little overwhelming. After all, you’re not just choosing a service; you’re choosing someone you’ll trust with your most personal thoughts and feelings.

The good news? You don’t need to get it perfect on the first try. Therapy is a relationship, and finding the right fit can make all the difference in how helpful and healing it feels.

Here are 5 key things to keep in mind when finding the right psychologist:

1. Focus on the Fit, Not Just the Credentials

Yes, qualifications and experience matter. But research shows that the most important factor in therapy success is the therapeutic alliance— that is, the quality of the relationship between you and your psychologist.

Do you feel heard? Understood? Comfortable enough to be vulnerable?
Trust your instincts. You deserve someone who feels like a teammate, not just an expert behind a clipboard.

Tip: It’s okay (and normal!) to book an initial session just to see how you feel — think of it as a trial run.

2. Be Clear About What You’re Looking For

Psychologists may be trained to work across a broad range of issues, but many develop particular areas of interest and experience over time. Some are more familiar with anxiety, trauma, grief, or relationship difficulties. Others might feel more confident supporting clients through life transitions, identity exploration, or parenting challenges.

Their approach also varies — some are more structured and strategy-focused, while others offer a slower, exploratory space to unpack what’s going on beneath the surface.

Ask yourself:
-What am I hoping to work on?
-Is this something short-term and specific, or more ongoing and complex?
-Have I seen a psychologist before — and what worked (or didn’t work) for me then?
-Would I prefer a structured, solution-focused approach or a more open-ended space to explore?
-Would I feel more at ease with someone who’s warm and gentle, or someone who is more direct and challenging?
-What kind of energy, presence, or personality would help me feel most safe and supported in therapy?

Getting clear on what you want can help you find someone who’s a good match for your needs.

3. Consider Practicalities

It might sound simple, but logistics matter.
How far are you willing to travel? Would you prefer in-person sessions or telehealth (online video sessions)? Does their availability suit your schedule?

The best psychologist in the world won’t be much help if it’s a logistical nightmare to get to your sessions.

Tip: Don’t overlook practical factors like cost, Medicare rebates, location, or waitlist times.

4. Don't Be Afraid to Advocate for Yourself

Remember, therapy is a team effort — you and your psychologist are working together to support your growth and well-being. If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s their communication style, the approach they're using, or how you feel during sessions — you’re allowed to bring it up. A good psychologist will welcome your feedback and adjust accordingly.

And if you realise after a few sessions that it’s not the right fit? That’s okay.
It’s not a failure — it’s part of finding the person who will best support your growth.

5. Remember: You’re in Charge

Sometimes, especially when we’re struggling, it’s easy to slip into the mindset that we have to accept whoever is available or recommended. But this is your journey — and you deserve a psychologist who feels like the right partner in it.

Trust yourself. Therapy is most powerful when you feel safe, supported, and respected.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right psychologist isn’t about finding a "perfect" person — it’s about finding someone who gets you, challenges you kindly, and walks beside you as you navigate life’s ups and downs.

If the first match isn’t quite right, don’t give up. Keep looking. You’re investing in yourself — and that’s one of the most important investments you’ll ever make.