Steps to Finding a Therapist in Canada
If you’ve ever considered therapy but felt unsure about where to begin, you're not alone. The process of finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, even for those who have been to therapy before.
With so many counseling clinics and therapist directories to navigate, it’s easy to feel lost. On top of that, therapists often have a long list of credentials and certifications after their names, which can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with what they mean. To make things even more complicated, each therapist may specialize in different types of therapy or treat various mental health concerns. With all these factors to consider, it’s no wonder the search for the right therapist can feel daunting and even discouraging.
Finding a therapist doesn’t have to be so stressful… as long as you’re equipped with the right information!
The first step in finding the right therapist is understanding the different types of mental health professionals and their training. For example, are you looking for a counselor, psychologist, or social worker? If you’re unsure about these distinctions, check out our blog post about this here. Then, consider some important factors such as:
Does the therapist offer treatment for your particular concerns? Therapists typically focus on a few specific mental health issues, which means they might not treat your particular concern. For instance, one therapist may specialize in anxiety, depression, and work-related stress, while another might focus on alcohol abuse or trauma. Most therapists list their areas of expertise in their online profiles, so reviewing these details will help you narrow down your options.
Is the type of therapy aligned with your views and your needs? In a therapist's bio, you may also notice that they mention which type(s) of therapy they provide. The most common type of therapy provided is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (learn more about CBT in our blog). However, there are many other types of therapy, and most therapists offer 1-3 different types; it is important to do a quick search about these types of therapy to assess whether they would be a good fit with your personality, needs, and worldviews. For example, therapists who provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy will treat your mental health concerns by focusing on changing your thoughts and behaviors, whereas a therapist who provides Interpersonal Therapy will treat your mental health concerns by focusing on bolstering the relationships in your life. Assessing whether the type of therapy offered would be a good fit for you is an important step in further narrowing down a therapist.
Do you want to attend therapy in-person or virtually? It’s important to decide whether you want to attend therapy online or in-person. Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions for many mental health issues. Some therapists offer both options, while others may only provide one. If you choose in-person therapy, consider the location—long commutes or inconvenient access could affect your commitment to regular sessions. On the other hand, virtual therapy might offer more flexibility and comfort.
You can read more about ‘Telemental health services’ here.
So, you’ve considered these factors… now how do you actually find a therapist?
Ask For Recommendations: Your physician or other healthcare providers can be a great starting point for finding a therapist. They may have trusted recommendations based on your specific needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family as well! If you’re comfortable, their personal experiences could offer valuable insights and help guide your search.
Do Some Online research: There are many online directories that can help you find a therapist in Canada. These databases let you filter your search by location, areas of specialization, and therapy types. We’ve linked to a major directory at the bottom of this blog for your convenience. Alternatively, searching for therapy clinics in your area can also be useful as many clinics list their therapists and the services they offer on their website.
Reach Out to Potential Therapists: Once you’ve compiled a list of potential therapists, take the next step and reach out to them (or their clinic). Don’t hesitate to ask about availability, wait times, and their therapy approach. Some therapists offer a free 15-minute consultation, which can be a great opportunity to ask about their experience treating your specific concerns and get a sense of their personality. This can be especially helpful in making your final decision.
Key Point: One of the most significant predictors of successful therapy is the fit/connection between you and your therapist. Feeling comfortable and safe with your therapist is essential for the process to be effective. If you don’t feel a connection, or if their approach doesn’t resonate with you, it’s important to move on and find someone who is a better fit. Think of it like finding the right family doctor or physiotherapist… it may take meeting with a few therapists before you find the one who works best for you. Finding a therapist is the first step in bolstering your wellness and flourishing, and enduring the process of finding a therapist is worth it!
If you’re interested in taking proactive steps to improve your mental health and overall wellness, understanding the foundations of mental health is a crucial first step. We offer evidence-based mental health and wellness education designed to promote wellness intelligence and help individuals and organizations develop a deeper understanding of mental health and wellness. Consider booking one of our expert Speakers, Dr. Nicole Legg, for your next community or corporate wellness event. Her talks provides essential, evidence-based information on mental health and wellness and can be customized to meet the needs of different audiences and settings.
Looking for additional speakers to address topics such as stress, burnout, emotional intelligence, and more? We have a range of expert Speakers who are eager to share valuable insights and practical steps for protecting and promoting your health and wellness. By enhancing your wellness knowledge, you’ll be equipped to take more informed and proactive steps toward better mental health.
Database of Canadian Therapists: Psychology Today Canadian Database
Written by:
Nicole Legg, PhD, WellIntel Talks Co-Founder, Clinical Psychologist
Cindy McDowell, MSc, WellIntel Talks Co-Founder, Cognitive Health Researcher
Rachel Mallinson, BA, WellIntel Talks Intern