How to choose a therapist?

From the book – Chapter 14: Counselling and Psychotherapy

How to choose a therapist

Qualifications and registration: recognised degrees in psychology, counselling, social work, or psychiatry; licensing where applicable.
Specialisation: age group and type of problem.
Approach: structured and skills-based (CBT, DBT) or exploratory (psychodynamic, humanistic).
Comfort and trust: you should feel respected, heard, and safe. If you do not feel comfortable after a few sessions, it is okay to seek another therapist.
Practical factors: location, timing, fees, online versus in-person, language.

The Waiting Room – Priya, 26, a software tester in Pune, has avoided therapy for a year. She fears being called mad, being judged, and having to spill everything on…
Two Kitchens, One Quarrel – Hamid and Salma have been married six years, living with his parents in Hyderabad. Every small matter becomes a fight: who cooks, how money is spent,…
When Words Alone Were Not Enough – Luca, 41, a chef in Rome, has had panic attacks for three years. His heart pounds, his chest tightens and he fears he will die. He…
Neha, Age 29 – Neha, twenty-nine, was always exhausted. On the outside she was the perfect friend, daughter and employee: always smiling, always agreeing, never saying no. Inside, she was…

Bhagavad Gita 4.34 – Know that by approaching with respect, by questioning, and by service. Those who see reality will teach you.