Top 10 Tips for Finding a Counsellor or Therapist
Here are some practical tips to help you find a mental health professional, someone who is both qualified and the right fit for your needs. Most mental health professionals have an online presence, so be sure to check their website, agency profile, or LinkedIn® bio for information.
1. Identify Your Goals
Many therapists specialize in different areas (e.g. depression, trauma, relationships, etc.) so be clear about what you want help with.
2. Therapist Profile
When reviewing the therapist's professional background, look for years of work experience, area of specialization, types of therapy offered, personal style, and other considerations to see if they seem to be approachable, responsive, and safe.
3. Educational Qualifications
The terms counsellor and therapist cover a variety of designations, many of whom provide similar mental health services - see below. In all cases, it’s critical to ensure the person you decide to work with is educated, trained,
experienced, and supervised.
For mental health professionals with the title of counsellor or therapist, a minimum Master’s level of education is required, with specialization in psychology, counselling, counselling psychology, clinical social work, psychotherapy, or psychiatry.
Master in Social Work (MSW)
Master of Arts (MA)
Master of Education (MEd)
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Medical Doctor (M.D.) Psychiatrist
Caution: Be sure to verify the person’s educational background, as some people use the title of counsellor or therapist without the appropriate credentials.
4. Professional Association
Along with education, it’s important to verify whether the counsellor or therapist is licensed, registered, or accredited with a relevant professional association or regulatory body, such as:
Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) – https://acsw.ab.ca
College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) – https://www.cap.ab.ca
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) – https://www.ccpa-accp.ca
Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) – https://cpa.ca
BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) – https://bcacc.ca
Note: Recognized credentials and regulatory guidance are foundational to a therapist’s professional practice and the public’s protection. This ensures Professional Standards, Codes of Ethics and Policies are followed, and the safe delivery of mental health care.
5. Practical Needs
Be sure to confirm the counsellor’s fees, location, availability, as well as language, gender, age, or cultural background, if these matter to you.
Note: Provincial and company health plans do not cover all types of services, so check first for details.
6. Delivery Options
Often there are options regarding in-person vs. online or virtual sessions - individual, couple or group work - day, evening, or weekend meetings - as well as length of sessions. Make sure the service fits your life schedule and routines.
7. Book a Consultation First
Many therapists offer free or low-cost, brief introductory calls for potential clients. In this casual conversation, your goal is to determine fit, respect, and safety with the counsellor. Note: Research has consistently shown that the
therapeutic alliance (i.e. the Client-Therapist relationship) is the most important predictor of success in therapy.
8. Referrals
Use known and reputable referral sources when considering service - Counselling Associations, Psychology and Social Work Colleges, Employee Assistance Programs, online platforms with verified professionals (e.g. Psychology Today), and recommendations from a doctor, friend, or family member.
9. Switching Service Providers
It’s normal to take a few sessions to settle in with a new counsellor or therapist. But if things just don't feel right, it’s okay to try someone else. Therapy is a personal process, so trust your intuition.
10. You Deserve Support
Finding the ideal person might take a little time, but the right therapist can make all the difference in your counselling experience and reaching your goals.