Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal journey. Therapy is most effective when you feel comfortable, understood, and supported by your therapist. However, not every therapist is the right fit for every person—and that’s okay. What matters most is finding someone whose approach and experience align with your needs.
Here, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the right therapist in Saskatoon, while highlighting my strengths as a therapist to help you determine if I might be the right fit for you.
Before beginning your search, take some time to reflect on your goals for therapy. Are you seeking help with anxiety, stress, anger management, or self-esteem? Are you looking for a therapist with specific experience or training?
Understanding your needs can help you narrow your options. Some factors to consider include:
Therapeutic Approach: Do you prefer structured, goal-oriented methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or a more conversational, exploratory approach?
Personality Fit: Would you feel more comfortable with a therapist who is warm and empathetic or someone who is more direct and solution-focused?
Specialized Experience: Does the therapist have experience working with issues similar to yours?
Understanding a therapist’s strengths is key to finding the right fit for your needs. Each therapist brings unique skills, training, and experiences to their practice, and knowing what to look for can help you make an informed choice.
Here’s a short guide to identifying a therapist’s strengths:
Experience and Expertise: Look for a therapist who has experience addressing the challenges you’re facing. For example, I specialize in behavioral change, including anger management, addiction recovery, and managing difficult emotions.
Therapeutic Approaches: Therapists often use a variety of methods. Understanding their preferred modalities can help you decide if they align with your goals. In my practice, I draw from evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, and Positive Psychology, tailoring each session to fit your unique needs.
Adaptability: A strong therapist can adjust their style to meet you where you are. Whether you need a structured plan or a supportive ear, their flexibility is a sign of their commitment to your growth. For example, I offer Walk and Talk Therapy for clients who find comfort in movement and nature.
Connection and Comfort: The ability to create a safe and empathetic space is one of the most important strengths a therapist can have. Trust your instincts—if you feel heard and understood, you’re likely in good hands.
By exploring these aspects, you’ll gain a better sense of how a therapist’s strengths align with your needs, setting the foundation for a positive and productive therapy experience.
When meeting with a therapist for the first time, don’t be afraid to ask questions to determine if they’re the right fit for you. Some helpful questions include:
What is your experience working with people who have challenges similar to mine?
What therapeutic approaches do you use, and why?
How do you tailor your approach to meet individual needs?
What does a typical session with you look like?
What do you believe is the key to a successful therapy experience?
A good therapist will welcome these questions and provide honest answers to help you make an informed decision.
The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and mutual respect. After your initial session, reflect on how you felt during the conversation:
Did you feel heard and understood?
Did the therapist seem genuinely interested in your concerns?
Did their approach resonate with you?
If the answer to these questions is "yes," you may have found a good match. If not, it’s okay to explore other options.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. However, I recognize that my approach may not resonate with everyone. If you’re seeking a highly specialized focus outside of my areas of expertise, I’m happy to help guide you toward other trusted professionals in Saskatoon.
On the other hand, if you value a therapist who is approachable, compassionate, and skilled in evidence-based techniques for behavioral change, I’d be honored to work with you.
If you start therapy with someone and realize it’s not the right fit, don’t hesitate to make a change. Therapy is an investment in your well-being, and finding the right therapist is key to achieving your goals.
Choosing the right therapist is an important step in your mental health journey. If you’re looking for a compassionate, experienced therapist in Saskatoon, I’d love to explore whether we’re a good fit.
Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life. Together, we can create a plan tailored to your needs and help you move forward with confidence.
Therapy is a partnership, and the right therapist will empower you to achieve your goals. Whether or not I’m the right person for you, I’m here to support you in finding the care and connection you deserve.