Starting therapy can feel overwhelming—but finding a therapist doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest and most effective tools available is PsychologyToday.com, which offers a searchable directory of licensed therapists across the country.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Draft a Short Outreach Email
Before diving into the search, it helps to have a short, clear email prepared. You’ll be reaching out to multiple therapists, and having a template ready can make the process faster and less stressful. Here's a sample you can personalize:
Subject: Inquiry About Therapy Availability
Hi,
My name is [your name]. I’m looking to begin therapy to work on [briefly describe your main concern—e.g., relationship issues, work stress, anxiety, family dynamics, etc.].
I have [your insurance], or I’m able to pay privately up to [$-$$] per session. I’m looking for [in-person or virtual] sessions and am typically available on [days/times you’re free].
Are you currently accepting clients? If so, how can we move forward?
Best,
[your name]
2. Begin Your Search
Go to PsychologyToday.com and enter your preferences. If you’re looking for in-person therapy, search by your city or ZIP code. If virtual therapy is an option for you, you can expand your search to include your entire state.
Use the filters to narrow your results:
Insurance: Select your provider if you plan to use insurance.
Issues: Choose the concern(s) you’d like to address.
Format: Choose “In-Person” or “Online Therapy,” depending on your preference.
From there, scroll through the list of therapists. When someone sounds like a good fit, use your template email to reach out. Aim to contact 5–15 therapists—it’s common for some to have full caseloads or limited availability, so casting a wide net increases your chances of finding a match.
3. Follow Up and Book a Consultation
Some therapists offer free phone or video consultations. These are a great opportunity to ask questions, share a bit about what you’re looking for, and get a sense of how it feels to talk with them.
4. Trust the Relationship
All the research suggests that the most important factor in a successful therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between you and your therapist. So if a particular therapist doesn’t feel like the right fit, that’s okay—keep looking until you find someone you connect with.
Taking this first step is an act of care toward yourself, and it’s worth doing thoughtfully. If you have questions along the way, feel free to reach out.
Warmly,
Whitney
