Watch Your Practice Grow By Understanding The Reasons Why Clients Choose A Therapist

Have you ever wondered how clients decide which therapist they want to see? 

Out of all the options out there, what makes a client choose one person over another?

Choosing a therapist is a significant step in a client’s mental health journey. It doesn't matter if someone is new to therapy, or looking to switch providers. There are factors that most clients consider when making this important decision.

If you’re looking to attract more clients that resonate with your therapy style this post is for you. Understanding what clients are looking for in a therapist can help in many ways. One of the most important is being able to create a marketing strategy to reach your target audience.  

Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that clients consider when choosing a therapist. This understanding will help you attract your ideal clients. As a result you'll thrive in private practice.  

How Clients Choose a Therapist

Therapist Qualifications and Specializations

A therapist's credentials are one of the first things potential clients look for. Clients recognize the significance of degrees, licenses, specializations and certifications. These show that you have a solid foundation of knowledge and training in the mental health field. 

Therapists that show they have a deeper understanding of certain topics attract clients. Certain specialties including anxiety, trauma, OCD, or family/relationship issues are popular. For example, consider a client dealing with OCD. They will most likely seek out a therapist with expertise in OCD disorders. Individuals facing trauma will look for trauma-focused therapists that practice modalities like EMDR.

A potential client will be more likely to choose you if you have a skill set that can manage their specific needs. So, be sure to highlight if you practice evidence-based techniques and tailored interventions. 

Qualifications are important, but so is a therapist that understands a client's unique challenges. Clients seek therapists that provide personalized support on their path to well-being. 

As mental health professionals, we have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our clients' lives. This is done by delivering specialized care that aligns with their distinct needs. 

Therapist Approach and Therapeutic Orientation

As therapists, we're all unique individuals with different training and backgrounds. This means we each have our own special therapeutic methods. You might be a fan of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapy. And you can bet that clients have their own preferences too. 

When clients are searching for their perfect therapist, they consider different therapeutic approaches. They are looking for one that clicks with them. Some folks love structure. They want to set clear goals and steps needed to achieve them. They'll appreciate therapists who equip them with practical strategies and tools. 

Others are all about exploring the deeper corners of their thoughts and emotions. They're ready to dig deep, gain insights, and understand the roots of their struggles. These clients will look for a therapist that encourages self-reflection and personal growth.

At the end of the day, the decision may come down to how comfortable the client feels about you. This can also help to build trust and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. A client will feel more at ease with a therapist's treatment plan if they trust the methods will work for them. 

Personal Connection and Trust

Building a solid rapport and fostering a personal connection with a therapist plays a vital role. Clients take into account several factors that contribute to this connection:

1. Therapist’s Demeanor: Some clients want a therapist that radiates warmth and compassion. They want to be treated with an empathetic and supportive approach. Others may prefer someone more stoic that provides fair feedback. Either way, a client wants concerns to be seen and validated in a safe space. Being your authentic self is the best way to attract therapy clients. The right ones will choose you.
2. Safe and Non-Judgemental Environment: Clients want to feel comfortable and know that they can open up to you. They want to express their emotions and vulnerabilities without criticism.
3. Trust: When a client feels confident and trusts in your expertise, you can be sure that they’ll choose to work with you. Clients want to feel your integrity and commitment to their well-being. An atmosphere of trust can encourage them to dive deeper into their psyche. All while feeling safe during their therapy sessions. 

When a solid therapeutic bond is formed, it opens the door to go deeper within the client's thoughts. The client will be more likely to explore their challenges in a profound way. Thus, resulting in more positive therapy outcomes. 

You might be wondering, “how can a client know if we have a connection before we’ve even met?”

A great time to establish trust and rapport is during a consultation call or meeting. While offering your time without a fee might feel hard to do, it's a great way to bring in new clients. You and the client can both gauge if this therapeutic relationship will be the right fit. 

A social media or online profile can do some of the work for you. Sometimes clients come across a therapist profile on their own. This is an easy way to begin establishing a trusting relationship. Video marketing is another way you can reach a wider audience. 

Practical Considerations for Clients Choosing a Therapist

Let's take a look at some of the logistical considerations of choosing a therapist. Small logistical details play a significant role in a client's decision-making process.

1. Location

Potential clients like to find therapists within their local area, or a short commute. An office that is conveniently located can make all the difference. When therapy is accessible without a long and stressful journey, it's easier for clients to be consistent with their sessions. The plus side for you is that clients will more likely be on time for their appointments. 

2. Office Hours

Clients also have busy lives and responsibilities. For some, finding a therapist that offers flexible scheduling is the most important. Some therapists work varying schedules including evening or weekend hours. Stick to a schedule that works for you as a therapist, and the right clients will find you. 

3. Virtual Therapy

Virtual therapy has become the norm. Having the option of online therapy is becoming an important feature. Some clients will appreciate a therapist that is flexible between online and in-person sessions. Others want to stay in the comfort of their home. Virtual therapists can break through accessibility barriers as well. Clients with limited mobility or living in remote areas can access therapy with convenience. 

4. Cost of Therapy

Of course, practical considerations also include finances. Some clients need to have a therapist that accepts their health insurance. Other clients that self-pay for therapy might have a budget, or need a sliding scale fee structure. Be open about discussing your fees and payment options. Clients can make informed decisions about their finances and therapy. 

Why Clients Choose A Therapist: Reviews, Recommendations, and Referrals

Have you ever had clients find you through positive testimonials and word-of-mouth recommendations? 

Reviews, recommendations, and referrals can help potential clients feel reassured in starting therapy. If they hear stories about how others have improved their lives working with you, it can persuade them. 

Clients can turn to their friends or trusted network when looking for a therapist, too. They might ask friends, family, and other healthcare professionals. When you're referred by someone the client already trusts, their word can hold a lot of value in their decision making. 

Let's not forget about the power of the internet. Online directories like PsychToday are trusted platforms for clients looking for therapists. Clients can share honest feedback about their therapists on these sites. The reviews and ratings you accumulate there can give a potential client a sneak peak into who you are. 

Even if you get rave reviews, each client's experience is unique. What works for one person might not work for another. So, let clients consider their own needs and goals when reading your reviews and recommendations.

Cultural Competence and Diversity

Clients often look for therapists that show cultural competence. Cultural competence for a therapist means their ability to understand and appreciate diversity. This includes diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences.

Clients want to feel seen, understood, and respected in their unique cultural context. A therapist who is culturally responsive can be more inclusive and affirming. A therapeutic setting lets the client express their thoughts without fear of judgement. 

Cultural sensitivity builds a deep level of trust between the client and therapist. This trust enhances the effectiveness of therapy and promotes better outcomes. Clients see the value of working with a therapist that embraces their individuality.

Inclusivity and cultural competence go beyond mere tolerance. Embracing diversity and valuing the richness it brings makes the difference. Clients like therapists that can include cultural factors into the sessions. 

Empower Your Practice by Learning How To Attract Therapy Clients

It's important to know what clients think about when choosing a therapist. This will help you attract the right clients and give effective care (Guy, Poelstra, & Stark, 1989). Clients look at many things, like the therapist's methods and logistics. These factors matter when making choices for their health.

Your qualifications, specialties, and therapeutic approach are all important to a client. These factors can help build trust, and as a result a strong relationship between you and the client. This will help the client's overall outcome with therapy. The more we stay true to who we really are, the more likely we are to find clients who fit well with our way of working.

For more strategies on attracting ideal clients, explore our resources at Clarity Cooperative. Take advantage of our Pro Subscription, with a complimentary two-week trial.