How to Choose a Counsellor That’s Right for You
To answer this, I’m going to use an analogy you might not automatically associate with counselling: buying a new car.
A new car is an investment—often one of the biggest and most expensive purchases we make after buying a house. If you’re going to spend that much, you want to be sure it’s the right one for you. Choosing a counsellor is, in many ways, just the same. You’re investing time, energy, and money into something that needs to meet your individual needs.
Where should I look — a dealership or privately?
Let’s say I need a car to transport two teenagers to school, do the weekly food shop, and escape for the occasional well-deserved break—but I also don’t want to break the bank every time I fill up. That helps narrow down my choices. The same goes for counselling: think about what you need and where to look for it.
Is it fit for purpose?
Just like cars, counsellors come in different shapes, styles, and specialisms. If you’re dealing with anxiety, bereavement, addiction, identity questions, or relationship issues, it’s worth looking for someone who works specifically in those areas. Many directories allow you to filter by specialism, which can help you find someone better suited to your needs.
Does it feel right?
I hate light-coloured cars, but what if white is cheaper than British racing green? Will I feel comfortable driving it? The same goes for therapy. It’s not just about qualifications—it’s about whether you feel safe, supported, and able to open up. First impressions matter. How someone makes you feel in your first few moments of contact—whether that’s reading their profile or speaking to them—can be a good sign of whether it’s a good fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Can I afford it?
Counselling is an investment. Like car finance, it’s something to weigh up carefully. But while therapy may require some financial commitment, the potential long-term benefits to your wellbeing often outweigh the short-term cost. It might help to think of it as investing in your future self—not just patching things up for now.
What if I don’t like it?
Unlike a car, counselling doesn’t come with a 30-day money-back guarantee—but you’re not locked in. There’s no contract tying you to someone. If it doesn’t feel right, it’s absolutely okay to try someone else. Being comfortable with your counsellor is essential, and finding the right one can make a huge difference to your experience.
So how does this analogy help?
Once you know what you’re looking for—whether it’s “a family-sized car with a decent boot, cruise control and a satnav in dark blue” or “a counsellor who specialises in identity, works with young adults, and offers online sessions”—you’re in a much stronger position to make a confident choice.
And remember, it’s okay to take your time. Counselling is a personal journey. Finding the right person for you can make all the difference.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re thinking about starting counselling and want to know whether we’d be a good fit, I offer a free, no-pressure initial chat. You can ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and decide what’s right for you.
Feel free to get in touch, book a session or explore the rest of my website to learn more about how I might be able to support you.
