Connecting with an Online Therapist: How to Find the Right Fit?

Today, more and more people are turning to online mental health therapy. Technology provides convenient access, high privacy, and flexible scheduling. However, finding a therapist who is a good personal fit is not always simple. How can you connect with an online therapist in a way that leads to a successful therapeutic process? What should you check before getting started? In this post, I will address the main steps for finding a good match between patient and therapist, highlight important points to consider, and offer tools to help you make an informed decision.

“The Embrace,” collage on paper.

Why Is It Important to Find a Good Fit with Your Therapist?

A strong connection with your therapist is the foundation for successful therapy. The quality of the relationship between therapist and patient influences therapeutic outcomes more than any specific method. When there is trust, understanding, and open communication, the patient feels safe to share and face their challenges.

In online therapy, the connection is built through a screen, which adds an extra challenge. That’s why it’s important to choose a therapist who feels comfortable to you, listens attentively, and responds in a way that meets your needs. A good fit fosters a sense of support and encourages you to continue the process during difficult moments.

How to Start Searching for an Online Therapist

Defining Your Needs

Before beginning your search, it’s helpful to define what you’re looking for in therapy:

• Are you seeking psychological therapy, psychotherapy, counseling, or behavioral therapy?

• Do you have a preference for a therapist with a specific specialization (anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma)?

• Is it important that the therapist speaks only Hebrew, or also other languages?

• What frequency of sessions do you prefer, and do you want short-term or long-term therapy?

• Are there specific therapeutic approaches you want to try, such as art therapy, music therapy, CBT, DBT, or something else?

Having clear definitions will help you focus your search on therapists who meet your needs.

Searching on Reliable Platforms

There are many platforms offering online therapy services. It’s important to choose one that ensures:

• Licensed and certified therapists

• Transparency about therapists’ credentials and training

• Access to reviews from other patients

• Technical support in case of connection issues

Also check whether the platform allows an initial introductory session without commitment, so you can gauge the therapist’s style and your comfort level. I am also listed on various therapist platforms such as Yah’t and Tipulnet.

What to Look for in an Online Introductory Session

An introductory session is your opportunity to meet the therapist and see if you feel comfortable with them. During the session, pay attention to:

• Listening and empathy – Does the therapist listen attentively and respond sensitively?

• Language and communication – Do you understand the therapist? Are explanations clear? Does the therapist understand you?

• Therapeutic approach – Does the therapist explain their method? Does it fit your needs?

• Technical comfort – Does the session run smoothly? Are you comfortable with the online format?

If something feels off, don’t hesitate to continue searching for another therapist. Feeling safe and comfortable is essential. As therapists, we understand that we don’t fit every client, and we can even recommend colleagues who may be a better match.

Key Considerations During Online Therapy

• Maintaining Privacy - Online therapy requires attention to privacy just like in-person therapy. Choose a quiet and comfortable place for your sessions where you can speak freely, and always ensure the platform you use meets your privacy standards. Confidentiality is crucial in all emotional therapies, regardless of the format.

• Creating a Routine - Set regular times for sessions to establish a therapeutic routine. This helps you stay committed and receive the support you need.

• Open Communication - Be honest with your therapist about your feelings toward therapy. If something isn’t working, share it. Good therapy relies on ongoing dialogue.

• Patience - Therapy takes time. Don’t expect immediate results. Consistency and a strong relationship with your therapist will lead to meaningful change over time.

Situations Where Online Therapy Is Especially Suitable

• People with busy schedules who find it difficult to attend in person

• Residents of remote areas without access to certified therapists

• People who feel more comfortable sharing through a screen rather than face-to-face

• Patients with physical limitations or transportation challenges

Online therapy provides convenient access, but it’s important to remember it may not be suitable for everyone. In cases of severe distress or emergencies, immediate help from crisis services is necessary.

How to Assess Progress in Online Therapy

To ensure therapy is effective, define therapeutic goals with your therapist. During sessions, monitor changes in your feelings, behavior, and thoughts. You can also keep a personal journal to track progress, or in the case of art therapy, a visual journal (sketchbook) that can be shared during therapy if desired.

If you feel the therapy isn’t helping, discuss it with your therapist. It may be necessary to change approaches or even switch therapists.

Final Thoughts

A strong connection with an online therapist combines the right choice, open communication, and persistence. It’s important to define your needs in advance, choose a reliable platform, and test compatibility in an introductory session. During therapy, maintain privacy, a routine, and honest communication.

If you’re seeking mental health support, don’t compromise on comfort and trust. Good therapy can significantly improve your quality of life. Start your search today, schedule an introductory session, and discover how online therapy can support you.

I’m here for you, and if we don’t feel like the right match, I wish you success in finding the therapist that’s best for you, and I hope I can help along the way.

And greetings from Georgia! :)