How to Choose a Psychologist: What to Check Before You Start

In this guide, we explain which credentials matter, what questions to ask and how to know you have found the right person.

What does choosing the right psychologist mean?

Choosing the right psychologist means finding a professional with a valid license, experience with what you are going through and someone you feel comfortable talking to. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), trust and a good relationship with your therapist are essential for therapy to work.

Psychologist, therapist or psychiatrist: who can provide therapy?

In the US there are several types of mental health professionals:

• Psychologist: usually has a doctorate in psychology and can assess and provide psychotherapy.
• Licensed professional counselor (LPC or LMHC), clinical social worker (LCSW) or marriage and family therapist (LMFT): have a master’s degree and are licensed to provide therapy.
• Psychiatrist: a medical doctor who can prescribe medication.

When we look for help, we often think of a psychologist first. But licensed counselors, clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists are also specifically trained to provide therapy: they complete a master’s degree, supervised clinical hours and an exam to earn their state license. Many have years of experience supporting people with anxiety, depression, grief or trauma. If what you are looking for is therapy, any of these licensed professionals can be an excellent choice. What matters is that their license is valid and that they have experience with what you need.

How to choose a psychologist: 6 things to check

1. They are licensed in your state

In the US, each state issues its own licenses. To receive therapy, even virtually, the professional usually needs to be licensed in the state where you are located. You can verify a license by searching their name on your state licensing board’s website.

2. They have experience with what you are going through

Not every professional works with the same issues. If you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, grief or trauma, ask whether they have experience with it.

3. They speak your language

Talking about emotions in a second language can be exhausting. We often can’t find the exact words for what we feel. A Spanish-speaking psychologist lets you express yourself naturally, without translating in your head.

4. They understand your culture

Family, faith, migration and cultural expectations shape how we experience what happens to us. A professional who knows Latino culture can understand without you having to explain everything.

5. The cost is clear

Ask how much each session costs before you start and whether they accept insurance or direct pay. For many immigrants, insurance isn’t an option, so knowing the price up front avoids surprises.

6. The schedule and format work for you

If you work long hours or have children, virtual sessions can make it much easier to stay consistent.

Questions you can ask in your first session

NIMH suggests asking questions like these:

• Are you licensed in my state? How many years have you been practicing?
• What experience do you have with what I am going through?
• What type of therapy do you use, and why do you think it can help me?
• How much does each session cost?
• How long might therapy last, and how will we know if I am making progress?

A good professional will answer calmly and clearly. Asking questions isn’t distrust: it is part of taking care of yourself.

Signs they are the right person

• You feel heard and respected.
• They don’t judge you for what you share.
• They explain things clearly.
• They respect your values and your culture.
• After a few sessions, you feel you are making progress, even if it is little by little.

What if I don’t feel comfortable?

It is fine to change professionals. Not everyone connects with every therapist, and that doesn’t mean therapy isn’t for you. You can tell your therapist or ask to be matched with someone else.