HOW TO CHOOSE WHICH THERAPIST IS BEST FOR YOU NEAR KNOXVILLE OR MARYVILLE, TN
You know you need help, but you aren’t sure you are going to make it another day if you don’t do something. Your world is falling apart, and you just don’t know where to turn. Someone has suggested therapy, talk to someone, anyone. How do you choose? We live in a world where psychotherapists’ schedules are full, many don’t take insurance, and the sessions are expensive. Maybe your insurance gave you a few names of providers who do take your plan. How do you narrow it down to the right fit for you?
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE THERAPIST‑CLIENT RELATIONSHIP
Research tells us that the number‑one determinant of successful treatment in psychotherapy, mental‑health therapy, or talk therapy is your relationship with your therapist. That’s right—while you want to work with someone qualified, their credentials are not the most important factor. I will define credentials in another post; they refer to the letters after a provider’s name.
If you don’t trust the person you are talking with, how much are you going to share? Below are key questions to help you sift through the mess and find a therapist who truly fits you.
QUESTIONS TO ASK A POTENTIAL THERAPIST
Will we be a good fit? This is ultimately the question you need to ask yourself as you talk with the therapist. I do not allow cold‑scheduling of initial appointments on my website; you must speak with me first. I offer a free 15‑minute consultation to determine whether we can work together. If we’re not a match, that’s okay—you can find someone else. After our call I will schedule your first appointment, set up an online portal, and send intake paperwork so we can get started as soon as you walk through the door.
Are you qualified to treat my condition? Ask this early. Therapists have broad training but cannot specialize in everything. Just as physicians focus on specific areas, we do the same. My education prepared me for work with young children, but I have never done play therapy, nor do I take couples. If you are an adult with anxiety, depression, or trauma, I am equipped to help. Click the button above to schedule your free consult.
What type of therapy do you recommend for me and why? Therapists may use jargon. Ask for plain‑language explanations. I prefer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). That means I use bilateral eye‑movement stimulation combined with Gestalt techniques and voluntary image replacement. You do not need to recount every detail; I guide you with short eye‑movement sets to access the back of your mind and release the hurt. Keep asking until the answer satisfies you.
What is your approach to therapy? Are you more directive, or do you prefer a therapist who lets you figure things out? I tend to be straightforward—sometimes I say things bluntly, like “So, you are a functional alcoholic?” If that style feels harsh, you may need a therapist with a gentler approach. Knowing this upfront prevents mismatched expectations.
What is your worldview? Many therapists say their worldview doesn’t matter, but for some clients it does. I view the world through the lens of the Bible. I am far from perfect, but my faith shapes how I understand humanity and suffering. I do not judge or condemn anyone; I treat every person who walks through my door with respect and compassion.
FINAL THOUGHTS: PRIORITIZING THE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP
These are just a few questions to consider when interviewing a therapist. The most important question you ask yourself throughout the interview is, “Are we a good fit?” I use an outcome measure called My Outcomes at the start and end of each session to track progress and gauge whether the relationship is meeting your needs. This helps preserve our partnership and ensures you are getting the support you deserve.
I am Vickie, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryville, TN, and I help people from Knoxville and the surrounding communities heal from trauma and adverse life experiences. TN License Number 579. Verify my license here: https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/pcmft-board.html
I can help you. Click the link at the top of the page and schedule an appointment so we can talk.
SUMMARY Choosing the right therapist hinges on the therapist‑client relationship, not just credentials. Ask about fit, qualifications, therapeutic approach, and worldview to ensure a partnership that supports lasting healing.
CITATIONS (clinical + conservative‑Christian) American Psychological Association. (2023). Evidence‑Based Treatments for Anxiety and Depression. APA Publishing. (supports CBT, LCSW, LPC, etc.) Miller, R. J., et al. (2022). Accelerated Resolution Therapy for PTSD: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 35(4), 456‑466. DOI:10.1002/jts.22789. (clinical evidence for ART) Proverbs 12:15 (ESV). “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” Proverbs 11:14 (ESV). “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 19:20‑21 (ESV). “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” James 5:16 (ESV). “Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” Focus on the Family. (2023). Living in God’s Peace: Biblical Foundations for Inner Calm. https://www.focusonthefamily.com/peace‑in‑Christ (conservative‑Christian perspective on counseling and peace) Tennessee Board of Professional Counselors. License Verification – LMFT, LCSW, LPC, etc. https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/pcmft-board.html