How to choose a therapist?

Choosing a therapist is something that should be done carefully. There are a number of factors that should be considered before booking an initial session with a psychologist.

• The most important factor to consider when choosing a therapist is about finding someone that is compatible with the client’s personality. The client should find the therapist warm and easy to talk to. It is also important that the therapist is respectful and consistent.
• Try and find out some basic information about the psychologist’s theoretical orientation before the first session. This is essential as it can give a client a general idea about how the therapist works and what they specialise in.
• A client attends sessions at the therapist’s rooms on a weekly basis. Therefore the psychologist’s offices should be relatively close to the client’s house or work. This is a practical consideration that can reduce time spent travelling through the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg.
• It is often easier for a client to feel comfortable in therapy if a person is able to speak their first language.
• Although many people are comfortable working with a therapist of either gender. Some people might prefer working with a male or a female therapist. This may be helpful if a client finds it easier to accept or ask for help from a psychologist of a specific gender