Find the Right Therapist

When to Seek Help from a Therapist

Life brings many challenges, and sometimes, we all need support. Whether you're dealing with personal conflicts, life changes, relationship challenges, or mental health issues like depression, stress, or anxiety, finding a licensed therapist can be the first step toward healing. An effective therapist provides a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings and helps you navigate the challenges you're facing. If you're wondering when to seek help, remember that therapy isn't just for crisis moments — it's a valuable tool for personal growth and self-care during any stage of life

Challenges in Finding the Right Therapist

Therapy is most effective when you feel understood and supported by the professional guiding you. When looking for a therapist, it’s important to find one who makes you feel comfortable and validated in what you’re experiencing. Some therapists have different areas of specialization, so it can be especially helpful to find a mental health professional who works in areas you might need assistance with, such as PTSD, or grief. Beyond considering a therapist’s specialization, qualifications, and ethics, it’s essential to choose someone with whom you can build a trusting, lasting relationship. That’s where GoodTherapy comes in.

How GoodTherapy Can Help You Find a Therapist

At GoodTherapy, we’re more than just a directory — we’re your partner in finding the right therapist. Our platform is built on the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality, ethical care. When you use GoodTherapy to find a therapist, you're choosing a service that prioritizes your well-being above all else, and we’ve worked hard to make our directory one of the safest places to find a therapist online. We require all therapists who list in our directory to have a graduate-level education and to agree to the elements of healthy therapy. Therapists who list with us must pay a membership fee, which in turn helps support the quality of our services.

Listed therapists must also have a professional license or reside in a jurisdiction in which it is legal to practice without a license or as an intern under supervision. If a therapist resides in a jurisdiction that requires licensure in order to practice, their profile page will include our Verified Credential Verification Seal , signifying that they have had their state license confirmed as active with their State Licensing Board.

If they reside in a jurisdiction which does not require licensure in order to practice, the Credential Verification Seal indicates that educational requirements for membership have been met. With these standards, we ensure that every therapist listed in our directory is committed to healthy and ethical therapy practices. Our therapy directory is designed to make the process of finding a therapist as smooth and rewarding as possible. Whether you're searching by location, specialization, or treatment method, we help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. With our easy-to-use directory, you can find a local therapist who meets your requirements, ensuring that your journey to well-being starts on the right foot.

We offer a range of therapy services provided by highly qualified professionals, including:

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs): Experts in individual, family, or couples therapy, with extensive experience in community settings. Licensing requirements vary by state, but LCSWs hold graduate degrees and typically have at least two years of clinical social work experience. They often work in schools, public health and medical fields, or other community and group settings.
• Licensed Addiction Counselors (LACs): Specialists in addiction counseling, working alongside therapists to provide comprehensive care. Typically, LACs have a bachelor's degree and will have a minimum of one year of training in addiction counseling.
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs):Focused on helping families and couples navigate relationship challenges. LMFTs will have a master's degree and typically must complete an internship before practicing.

We’re here to guide you every step of the way, helping you connect with a therapist who truly understands and supports you.

How to Choose the Right Therapist

Finding a therapist who meets your unique needs can make all the difference in your mental health journey. Some key factors to consider include:

• Specialization: For the best outcomes, look for therapists who specialize in the areas you're seeking help with. Learn more about the wide range of issues commonly treated in therapy.
• Credentials: Ensure potential therapists are licensed and have the relevant qualifications to provide the therapy services you need.
• Reviews: Reading user reviews can give you insight into a therapist's approach and effectiveness.

Find a Therapist Near You

Start Your Search Today

Your journey to well-being begins with finding the right therapist. At GoodTherapy, we’re dedicated to making that process easier and more straightforward. Start your search today with our therapy directory and connect with a licensed therapist near you. The support and care you need are just a few clicks away — it’s time to take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow.

Find a Therapist Now

Additional Resources

GoodTherapy is more than just a place to find a therapist. On our site, you’ll also find a wealth of resources built to support you on your mental health journey.

If you’re in crisis or know someone who is, you can find relevant information and resources on our crisis help page. This page also offers resources for those who have experienced or are experiencing sexual assault, abuse, and/or domestic violence .

If you wish to learn more about a particular mental health condition or issue treated in therapy, we have pages that provide detailed information on these topics. We also have a section devoted to types of therapy , where you can learn more about particular therapeutic techniques that may be of interest to you.