How Do I Know if a Therapist or Counsellor Is Right for Me?

Starting therapy or counselling can feel daunting - and that’s completely normal. Many people wonder how to know if a therapist is the right fit for them, especially in the early sessions.

The simplest and most reliable way to tell is to notice how you feel in the room and how your therapist responds to you.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I feel safe, respected, and listened to?

  • Does my therapist check in with me about how therapy is going?

  • Do I feel able to speak honestly if something doesn’t feel right?

Tip: Feeling comfortable in therapy doesn’t mean you’ll feel happy all the time. Therapy is often about exploring difficult thoughts and emotions - what matters is feeling safe enough to do that openly, without judgement.

A good therapist or counsellor will help you feel supported, empowered, and respected. And remember, it’s always okay to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Your comfort and trust are essential parts of the therapeutic process.

How Many Therapy or Counselling Sessions Will I Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The number of sessions you need depends on your goals, your circumstances, and what you’d like support with.

An experienced therapist, counsellor, or coach will talk with you about what you want to achieve and give you a realistic idea of how long therapy might take. Some people feel supported after just a few sessions, while others choose ongoing therapy over a longer period.

Tip: Progress in therapy isn’t always linear. Even small steps forward are meaningful and worth recognising.

What If I’d Like to See a Different Therapist or Counsellor?

Finding the right therapist, counsellor, or coach can take time - and that’s completely okay. Therapy is a personal experience, and feeling comfortable with the person you’re working with really matters.

If you’d like to try a different therapist at Didsbury Therapy Centre, simply send us an email. We’ll help you find someone who feels like the right match for you.

Tip: Changing therapists doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It simply means you’re advocating for yourself and finding the best support for your needs.