Looking for a mental health therapist is a deeply personal decision. It’s not just about finding someone with the right credentials—it’s about finding someone who feels like the right fit for you. The therapeutic relationship plays a significant role in your healing journey, so it’s crucial to find someone who offers both expertise and the personal qualities you’re seeking.

What Qualities Should You Look for in a Therapist?

A great therapist is more than a provider of mental health services—they’re someone you can connect with on a human level. Here are some important qualities to look for:

• Kindness and Compassion: A therapist who genuinely cares and listens with empathy can make all the difference. You want someone who makes you feel understood and supported without judgment.
• Insightfulness: Look for someone who offers new perspectives on the issues you're facing. A therapist who is both reflective and insightful can help you uncover patterns and offer strategies you may not have considered.
• Humor: Healing can be heavy, but a therapist with a sense of humor can help lighten the process. Sometimes laughter can be a powerful tool in coping and recovery.
• Adaptability: No two clients are alike. Your therapist should be flexible in their approach and capable of tailoring their methods to your unique needs.
• Specialized Expertise: A generalist approach can sometimes lead to vague advice or a “one-size-fits-all” strategy. You’ll want a therapist who specializes in treating the specific issues you’re facing—whether it’s anxiety, trauma, OCD, or depression.

It’s important to ask yourself: What kind of therapist do I see myself opening up to? Would I feel comfortable and understood by them? Therapy works best when you feel connected to your therapist on a deeper level.

Look for Specialized Expertise, Not a Generalist Approach

Many counselors take a generalist approach, meaning they work with all types of issues and may not have a deep level of expertise in one particular area. While this can be helpful for some, it’s often not the best option for those seeking treatment for specific conditions.

A specialist will have more focused experience and training in certain areas of therapy. For example, if you are struggling with anxiety or OCD, it’s beneficial to find a therapist who specializes in those conditions and uses evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). These methods are backed by research and have been proven effective in treating specific disorders.

General talk therapy might provide some relief, but specialized treatments are more targeted and often yield better results.

Important Factors to Consider When Choosing a Therapist or Agency

When researching a mental health therapist or agency, keep these factors in mind:

• Years of Experience: More experience doesn’t always mean better, but it can give you confidence in the therapist’s ability to navigate complex issues. Look for a therapist with a track record of success in the areas you want to address.
• Population Served: Are you seeking therapy for yourself or for your child? Some therapists only work with adults, while others specialize in children or teens. Make sure the therapist you choose is well-versed in working with your age group.
• Insurance Coverage: Most insurance companies cover therapy sessions ranging from 45 minutes to an hour, but not all therapists accept every type of insurance. Check if the therapist or agency is in-network with your insurance plan. It’s also worth finding out if they offer sliding scale fees for those without insurance.
• Agency or Therapist Reviews: Google reviews, testimonials, or endorsements on popular platforms like Psychology Today or ZocDoc can provide insight into other clients’ experiences. While no therapist is perfect for everyone, consistent positive feedback can be a good indicator of quality care.
• State Licensing and Credentials: Before scheduling an appointment, verify the therapist’s credentials through your state’s licensing board. You can often find endorsements and qualifications on professional platforms like LinkedIn, which can help ensure their legitimacy and experience.

The Role of Insurance in Therapy

Insurance plays a significant role in how often and for how long you can attend therapy. Most insurance plans cover weekly therapy sessions lasting 45 minutes to an hour, and often cover evidence-based treatments for conditions like anxiety, depression, and OCD. If you have questions about what your insurance covers, it's worth reaching out to both your insurance provider and the therapist’s office to get clarity.

Do Your Research: Take Your Time Finding the Best Fit

Choosing the right therapist isn’t something you should rush. Take the time to do your homework. Research potential therapists online, read reviews, and check their profiles on platforms like Psychology Today, LinkedIn, and ZocDoc. It’s also helpful to schedule a consultation before committing to a therapist. This way, you can see how you feel about them and whether their approach resonates with you.

At Asbury Counseling, I specialize in treating anxiety disorders and OCD using evidence-based approaches like ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). If you’re struggling with anxiety, now is the time to take action. Click the link below to view my profile on Psychology Today and schedule a consultation or your first appointment. At Asbury Counseling, I offer both online and in-person therapy to make counseling as convenient as possible for you. Whether you're located in the Akron, Ohio area or anywhere throughout Ohio or Florida, I am available to provide support tailored to your needs. My flexible availability means you can schedule sessions that fit into your busy life, and you can choose the format that works best for you—whether it’s face-to-face interaction in Akron or virtual telehealth from the comfort of your home. This flexibility allows me to be more accessible, giving you the support you need without added stress, making it easier to prioritize your mental health.

Reach out to schedule a consultation or your first session today—let’s work together toward your mental wellness, whether online or in-person! Together, we can help you start feeling better and move toward a more fulfilling life.

I am in-network with most major insurances, including several such as Aetna, United Health Care, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Anthem and many more.

Take the first step in your journey to mental wellness—click the link below to learn more and get started!

For your convenience, we are in-network with major insurance providers such as Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and Medical Mutual of Ohio, making it easier for couples to access the care they need.

My location in-person: (Grace Bible Church) 5781 Manchester Rd., Akron, Ohio 44319

My Psychology Today Profile My ZocDoc profile