How to Find a Therapist, Counselor, or Psychologist in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a bustling, exciting city with lots to offer. The beach, mountains, amazing food, and interesting art and culture are all within driving distance (well, depending on traffic!). With so many options at your fingertips, it can be difficult to find your way. Los Angeles is also home to many counselors, therapists, and psychologists and it can be hard to know how to find the right one to support you through navigating life. I want to help.
I know how difficult it is to find a therapist and knowing that finding the right “fit” is the most important factor in successful therapy, this is really important. Luckily, there are some tips that can help you find the right person.
Where should my therapist be located?
Right now, there are so many therapists offering teletherapy or virtual therapy. Therapists need to be licensed in the same state you are in, but this means you can look outside of just Los Angeles if you’d like. Think about whether it is important to you that your therapist be in the same city. Would it be helpful for them to have a sense of the area, so they know exactly what you mean when you are talking about certain places or neighborhoods? Do you want to be able to see them in person when this becomes an option, or establish a relationship so you can come back in person later in life if you ever need to? Or maybe you prefer virtual sessions and are happy to work with someone anywhere in California.
What do you need support with?
It is also important to have an idea of what you need support with. Why are you seeking therapy? Has something specific happened recently that prompted you to reach out? Maybe you have a specific issue you want help with – anxiety, depression, an eating disorder – or perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed by general life challenges like conflict with family members, stress at work, navigating life post college. Sometimes people come to therapy just to have a safe and supportive place to talk about what they are going through. Whatever you are looking for, look for a therapist who has experience in working with your issue. When you ask for a therapist or search online, look at the therapist’s website and see if they would be a good match for what you need.
What style of therapist is best for you?
Therapy is a science and an art, and so each therapist has their own unique style. Finding someone who you get along with well is an important part of therapy. Would you prefer someone who is structured and will give you direction and “homework assignments,” or are you the type of person who wants the space to explore your thoughts and feelings and see where this takes you? Some therapists are more distant while others are more engaged or use humor. There is no right or wrong when it comes to style, so just think about what is best for you.
Where to look?
Now that you have an idea of what type of therapist might be best for you, you need to know where to look! The main two ways of finding a therapist are online or through word of mouth. If you have people in your life who have been to therapy or know a therapist, a great place to start is to tell them what you are looking for and ask them for referrals. If you don’t know anyone or can’t find a good fit, searching online is a great option. You can Google what you are looking for, or search listing sites like Therapy Den or Psychology Today which have options to narrow down your search.
If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call me at (424) 231-5877 or send me a message for a free 15 minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to hear about what is happening and help direct you to the right person. If you are looking for help with relationships, anxiety, body image, and eating disorders, you can read more about how I can help here.