How to Find the Right Therapist for You

Entering psychotherapy can be a transformative step toward improving your mental health and well-being. However, finding the right therapist is essential to ensuring a positive and effective experience. Here are some key considerations to help you make the best choice:

1. Understand Your Needs

Before beginning your search, reflect on what you hope to gain from therapy. Are you looking for help with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or personal growth? It can be a hard question to be able to answer: ‘what do you want to change?’, however the change will come from you and therefore knowing your goals can guide you toward a therapist with the right expertise.

2. Research Different Types of Therapy

There are various approaches to therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA), Person-Centred Therapy, or Psychodynamic Therapy. Learning about these modalities can help you identify one that aligns with your preferences and needs. If you’re unsure, many therapists use an integrative approach, drawing from multiple methods. I always advise prospective clients to have a short consultation with a potential therapist, where you can enquire about their approach and how it may work for you. I, however, focus on the use of Transactional Analysis and I talk about this in more detail in my other articles.

3. Consider Qualifications and Experience

Check the qualifications of potential therapists. In the UK, look for professionals registered with reputable organisations such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Experience in addressing issues similar to yours can also be a valuable factor.

4. Look for Compatibility

The relationship between you and your therapist is, in my view, the most important part of the healing process. During an initial consultation, pay attention to how you feel talking to them. Do they listen attentively? Do you feel safe and understood? Good therapeutic outcomes are largely determined by the quality of the relationship, so do you see yourself being to open up to this person in time?

5. Practical Considerations

Location and Availability: Choose a therapist whose location and schedule work for you. Many therapists now offer online sessions, providing added flexibility if you are seeking a particular type of therapist, or one with a specialism. However, face-to-face therapy, in my view, offers a greater therapeutic impact and I would always encourage face-to-face where possible.

Cost: Therapy is an investment in your well-being. Consider your budget and check if the therapist offers sliding-scale fees or concessions.

6. Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions during an initial consultation. You might ask:

What is your therapeutic approach?

What can I expect from our work together?

What does a typical session look like?

7. Trust the Process

Finding the right therapist can take time and that is normal. Reaching out to initiate a potential relationship with a therapist is a big step, however it is crucial the way you both work is a good fit. When beginning with a therapist, be aware that trust and the building of the relationship can take time. I usually find it can take around ten sessions to establish a strong working relationship, however this will be different for everyone. This really is a process, so go with it.

Picking the right therapist is undoubtedly key for clients to make the desired changes in their life and get the most out of their experience. Below is an experience of a recent client of mine who I worked with in my private practice at Inner Warrior Therapy and I feel it illustrates the need for a good fit:

It’s hard to put to words how much my work with Carl impacted my life and my wellbeing, when I started therapy I did not expect such a deeply holistic, grounding, warm and interpersonal experience. It’s safe to say that my work with Carl will stay with me and impact me for the rest of my life, the way he helps you uncover and dig through any problems you’re going through, underlying issues in your life or just day-to-day experiences and emotions in such an open, supportive and inspiring way cannot be overstated.

Despite our work having ended, our work has helped me reframe my perception of life and my emotions while helping me find a place of calm and solace I did not have before meeting him, and I hope to one day continue our work together.

At Inner Warrior Therapy, I believe you are more than the sum of your past experiences. The question is: ‘Who do you want to become?’ My mission is to guide individuals—both men and women—toward understanding their patterns, unlocking their potential, and building a more authentic and fulfilling life. Life comes with challenges—whether it’s societal pressures, emotional struggles, or navigating life transitions. Drawing on my experience and background, including my time in rugby, I understand what it can take to face and overcome these challenges.

With over four years of therapeutic experience, I specialise in Transactional Analysis, an evidence- based approach to personal transformation. My focus is on helping you:

• Break free from limiting patterns rooted in the past.

• Build self-awareness and confidence.

• Navigate emotions like anger, stress, or anxiety more effectively.

• Improve relationships and communication.

How We’ll Work Together

My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to you. I provide a safe, judgment-free space to explore who you are and who you want to become. Together, we will:

• Understand your patterns: Unpack how your past influences your present.

• Rewrite your story: Challenge outdated beliefs and create new, empowering narratives.

• Transform your life: Build strategies that help you thrive in the here and now.

What Is Transactional Analysis (TA), and Why Is It Effective?

Transactional Analysis is a structured, practical therapy designed to help you understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It examines the ‘Scripts’ we develop in childhood—unconscious rules or patterns—and empowers you to change those that no longer serve you.

TA can help you:

• Gain clarity and confidence to tackle life’s challenges.

• Build stronger, healthier relationships.

• Take control of your thoughts and emotions.

Areas of Expertise

I work with clients on a range of challenges, including:

• Anxiety, stress, and depression

• Trauma and past wounds

• Anger and emotional regulation

• Self-esteem and confidence building

• Relationship challenges

• Life transitions and personal growth

• Sports performance and mindset

Therapy with Inner Warrior Therapy is more than “just talking.” It’s a pathway to meaningful and lasting change. I invite you to book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and how we can work together. Sessions are held at the Wellness Hub in Falmouth, a welcoming space designed to support your growth.

If you’re ready to tackle your challenges, and create the life you want, I’m here to support you.

carl@innerwarriortherapy.co.uk

07307224924

Carl Stephens Founder of Inner Warrior Therapy