Getting Started

Getting Started

How to Find a Therapist: Step-by-Step

A practical walkthrough from deciding you want therapy to booking your first appointment. Covers directories, insurance, referrals, and what to expect at your initial consultation.

Read Guide →
First Session

20 Questions to Ask a New Therapist

Your first session is also an interview. Ask about their experience with your concerns, their approach, session frequency, and how they measure progress. We list the questions that matter most.

Read Guide →
Red Flags

7 Signs Your Therapist Isn't a Good Fit

Feeling worse after every session? Therapist checks their phone? Gives unsolicited advice? Not every therapist is right for every person — and that's okay. Know when to switch.

Read Guide →

Therapy Types Explained

Therapy Types

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: A Plain-Language Comparison

The alphabet soup of therapy types can be confusing. We break down the most common modalities — what they treat, how they work, and who they're best for — without clinical jargon.

Read Guide →
Therapy Types

Couples Therapy: What to Actually Expect

Whether it's Gottman Method, EFT, or Imago, couples therapy follows predictable patterns. Learn what happens in session, how long it takes, and when it works (and when it doesn't).

Read Guide →
Specialty

Finding a Therapist for Specific Needs

LGBTQ+ affirming therapists, trauma specialists, therapists who work with neurodivergent adults — specialized needs require specialized search strategies.

Read Guide →

Practical Guides

Cost & Access

Therapy on a Budget: Affordable Options

Sliding scale, community mental health centers, training clinics, Open Path Collective, and employer EAPs. Therapy doesn't have to cost $200/session — here's how to find affordable care.

Read Guide →
Insurance

Navigating Insurance for Therapy

In-network vs. out-of-network, superbills, prior authorization, and mental health parity laws. Understanding your insurance coverage can save you hundreds per month.

Read Guide →
Online Therapy

Online Therapy: Pros, Cons, and How to Choose

BetterHelp, Talkspace, and independent therapists via telehealth. Online therapy works well for many issues but has limitations. We cover what to look for and what to avoid.

Read Guide →

✓ Pre-Session Checklist

  1. Verify your insurance covers the therapist (call your insurer, not just the provider)
  2. Write down 2-3 goals for therapy — what do you want to change?
  3. Note any medications you're taking
  4. Prepare a brief history of previous therapy experiences (if any)
  5. Arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork (or complete intake forms online)
  6. Remember: it's normal to feel nervous. Your therapist expects it.