How to find the right psychologist: A step-by-step Guide
- Ana Galban Leon
- Feb 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 31
Finding a psychologist who truly understands your needs can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s important to find a practitioner who aligns with your values, approach, and personal goals. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, life transitions, or personal growth, here’s how to choose the right psychologist in Brunswick.
1. Consider what your psychologist can support you with:
Everyone’s journey is unique, and therapy should reflect that. Before beginning your search, take a moment to consider:
What challenges are you facing? (e.g., stress, relationship issues, trauma)
Do you prefer a specific therapy style, such as mindfulness-based or psychodynamic?
Would you feel more comfortable with a psychologist who understands certain cultural backgrounds or life experiences?
Therapy works best when you feel safe, supported, and understood, so finding a psychologist whose approach resonates with you is key.
2. Look for a psychologist with a person-centred approach:
A person-centred approach means therapy is tailored to your individual needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all method. At Galena Psychology, I integrate humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness-based, and Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed approaches to create a warm, attuned space where clients can deepen self-awareness and grow at their own pace.
When researching psychologists, ask yourself:
✔ Does their approach feel aligned with what I need?
✔ Do they emphasize warmth, compassion, and collaboration?
✔ Do they provide an inclusive space for exploring different cultural identities?
3. Consider the psychologists location and accessibility
For many, convenience plays a big role in staying consistent with therapy. Choosing a psychologist in Brunswick if you are a resident or in the surrounding suburbs close to your home means you have easy access to local mental health support without needing to travel far. This will make you more likely to show up to your appointments, even if you are not feeling your best in the moment.
You may also want to check:
✔ Whether they offer in-person and online sessions
✔ Their availability and wait times for new clients
✔ If they accept Medicare rebates or private health insurance
4. Trust your instincts in the first session:
Your first session is an opportunity to see if you feel comfortable with the psychologist. While it may take time to build trust, you should feel a sense of warmth and attunement. A good therapist will create a space where you feel safe to share, explore, and grow.
In your first session, notice:
✨ Do I feel heard and understood?
✨ Does the psychologist explain their approach clearly?
✨ Am I comfortable discussing my thoughts and feelings here?
If something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s okay to explore other options. Therapy is a deeply personal experience, and finding the right fit is essential.
Ready to take the next step?
Finding the right psychologist is about more than credentials—it’s about connection, trust, and feeling safe to explore your inner world. At Galena Psychology, I understand that being a good fit for each other is important, which is why I offer a 10-minute introductory call to discuss the areas of concern and see if my approach is suited to your needs.
I aim to provide a warm, compassionate space for clients seeking meaningful personal transformation. If you’re looking for a psychologist in Fitzroy or Brunswick East, I would love to support you on your journey.
Or if you want to learn more about the services I provide:
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