Psychology Kent
Two people can see the same therapist for the same issue and have completely different experiences. That’s because finding the right therapist isn’t only about qualifications, it’s about fit.
This guide focuses on how to find the best therapist for your specific situation, not just a qualified one, and what to pay attention to along the way.
Before looking at individual therapists, it helps to get a rough sense of what you’re looking for.
Are you dealing with something recent and specific, or something longer-standing that you’ve never fully unpacked? Do you want a therapist who’s fairly direct and structured, or someone who gives you more space to lead the conversation?
You don’t need firm answers to these questions. But having even a loose sense of them makes it easier to recognise a good fit when you find one.
In the UK, the term “therapist” isn’t a protected title, which means checking registration with a body like the BACP, UKCP, or HCPC (for psychologists) is still an essential first filter.
Beyond that baseline, though, credentials alone won’t tell you whether someone is the right therapist for you. Two BACP-registered therapists can have very different styles, personalities, and areas of real strength.
This is where looking at a therapist’s specialisms becomes useful. Our page on therapy approaches outlines the different methods used at Psychology Kent, from CBT to more exploratory, integrative work.
Most therapists expect to be asked questions before a client commits, and a reasonable one won’t be put off by this.
Worth asking:
Have they worked with people facing something similar to what you’re going through.
Do they tend to be more structured and goal-focused, or more open-ended.
A good therapist will be upfront about referring you elsewhere if needed, rather than trying to make it work regardless.
Research consistently points to the therapeutic relationship itself, not the specific technique used, as one of the strongest predictors of whether therapy helps.
That means the first session is worth treating as a genuine assessment, not just a formality. Do you feel able to speak honestly. Do you feel judged, rushed, or dismissed at any point. Does the therapist seem genuinely curious about your situation, or more focused on fitting you into a set process.
If you’re weighing this up for yourself, a free introductory consultation can be a useful way to get a sense of this before committing to ongoing sessions.
If a therapist doesn’t feel right after a few sessions, that isn’t a failure on your part, and it doesn’t mean therapy itself won’t work for you.
Many therapists would rather refer you to a colleague who’s a better match than continue seeing someone who isn’t getting anywhere. Finding the right therapist is sometimes a process of a few attempts, not one decision made perfectly the first time.
This article is intended for general information and isn’t a substitute for professional advice. If you’re struggling to cope, speaking to your GP or a registered mental health professional is a good first step.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Yulia Craine
Counselling Psychologist, PhD in Counselling Psychology
Dr. Yulia Craine is a Counselling Psychologist with experience supporting individuals, couples and families through a range of psychological approaches, including CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Systemic Therapy, Gestalt, Compassion Focused Therapy and Mindfulness-based approaches. She works from an evidence-based, client-centred approach, offering a confidential and non-judgemental space for clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties and other life challenges.
