Finding the right therapist can feel daunting…kind of like online dating. And if you’ve ever been on a dating app, you know exactly what I mean. It’s overwhelming, vulnerable, and sometimes discouraging. You swipe, you match, you message—and still, the connection isn’t what you hoped for.
Recently, a friend and I were swapping online dating stories, and she said something that stuck with me: “Online dating helped me realize how normal I was.” We laughed, but there’s truth in it. You may have matched with someone who seemed great on paper, only to find they looked nothing like their photos, weren’t as funny in person, or the chemistry just wasn’t there.
Looking for a therapist in Chicago (or anywhere) can feel similar. Despite your best efforts, not every therapist will be the right fit. And that’s okay. Much like dating, finding a therapist involves risk, patience, and intentionality.
The good news? The right fit is out there. And every conversation along the way helps you get clearer about what matters to you. Just like you wouldn’t commit to a relationship after one date, you don’t have to commit to the first therapist you meet. Give yourself permission to explore until you find the therapist who feels right for you.
Here are some things to consider as you search for the right therapist in Chicago:
1. Experience Level
Good therapists come with all different backgrounds, trainings, and licensure levels. You might meet an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor), an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), or a Psy.D (Doctor of Psychology). Don’t hesitate to ask a potential therapist about their training, licensure, and experience.
2. Specialization
Think about the main issues you want to work on. Are you navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, or life transitions? Therapists often have advanced training or certifications—like CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Choosing a therapist whose expertise matches your goals can make the process more effective.
3. Fit Matters
Research shows therapy is most effective when there’s a strong relationship between therapist and client. Therapy can be uncomfortable at times, so it’s crucial you feel safe and understood. Maybe you prefer a therapist who shares certain identities or life experiences—like gender, race, sexuality, or parenthood. Or maybe you’re drawn more to style and personality. Pay attention to how you feel in that first session. It’s okay to have preferences.
4. Insurance or Self-Pay
If you’re using insurance, make sure your therapist is in-network. Call your insurance company to confirm details like deductibles and co-pays. Many practices also offer self-pay options, sliding-scale fees, or reduced rates with interns. In Chicago, resources like Open Path Collective can be another affordable route.
5. Manage Expectations
A therapist isn’t a mind-reader, and therapy isn’t about magically fixing everything. Like any meaningful relationship, it takes time and effort. A helpful mindset is to look for a “good enough fit” rather than a “perfect match.” What matters most is that you feel supported, safe, and that the experience is meaningful.
6. Don’t Ghost (and Don’t Worry if You’re Ghosted)
Nobody likes to be ghosted—not in dating, and not in therapy. If you don’t feel it’s the right fit, it’s okay. A good therapist will help refer you to someone else who may be a better match.
Finding the right therapist in Chicago is a journey, not a one-and-done task. It may take a few tries, but once you find the right fit, the investment in yourself is worth it. Therapy isn’t about fixing what’s broken—it’s about giving yourself the space to grow, heal, and live more authentically.
At Marra, we offer both in-person therapy in Chicago’s River West neighborhood and virtual therapy across Illinois. If you’ve been searching for therapist near me and are ready to start, our team is here to help you find the right fit for your journey.
