A Practical GuideHow to Find
a Therapist
in Richmond, VA.
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your mental health. Here's exactly how to do it — step-by-step, without the overwhelm.
Step-by-StepThe honest guide to finding the right therapist.
Whether you're new to therapy or trying to find a better fit, this guide walks you through the process from start to first session — and what to watch out for along the way.
01
Identify what you're looking for
Before searching, get specific. Is this about anxiety, relationship issues, a life transition, or something you're still trying to name? The clearer you can be, the better your match will be. You don't need a diagnosis. "I've been feeling stuck" or "I'm going through something hard at work" is enough to start.
You don't have to have it all figured out. Wanting to feel better is reason enough.
02
Check your insurance — or decide if you'll self-pay
Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card and ask: "Do I have mental health benefits? What's my deductible, and what's my copay for outpatient therapy?" Write down the answers. At Candor, we accept Anthem, Aetna, United/Optum, Sentara, and GEHA, and also work with self-pay and out-of-network benefits. Contact us to verify your specific coverage.
You don't have to have it all figured out. Wanting to feel better is reason enough.
03
Search directories — and filter by what matters
Psychology Today's therapist directory is the most comprehensive in the US. You can filter by specialty, insurance, location, gender, and more. Therapy Den is great for finding LGBTQIA+ affirming and culturally responsive therapists. For Richmond, VA specifically, you can search Google for your issue + "Richmond VA" — but take website copy with a grain of salt and look for actual credentials.
Credentials to look for in Virginia: LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), or a supervised Resident or Supervisee working toward licensure.
04
Book a free consultation before committing
Most therapists offer a free 15-minute consultation call. Use it. This is your chance to ask questions, get a feel for their communication style, and see if the fit feels right. A good therapist will welcome your questions — not rush you off the phone.
Therapeutic fit matters more than credentials alone. Research consistently shows the therapeutic relationship is one of the biggest predictors of outcomes.
05
Give it a real try — but trust your instincts
Therapy takes time. Most people start to notice real shifts within 4–8 sessions. Try not to judge too quickly after session one — it's often uncomfortable at first. That said, if something feels consistently off — dismissive, inappropriate, or just not working after 6–8 sessions — it's okay to look for someone else. A good therapist will actually support this.
Therapeutic fit matters more than credentials alone. Research consistently shows the therapeutic relationship is one of the biggest predictors of outcomes.
What to ask a therapist before you book
Questions to AskYour free consultation is 15 minutes. These questions will help you use it well.
"Have you worked with clients dealing with [my specific issue]?"
"What happens between sessions — is there homework or tools to use?"
"How long do most of your clients stay in therapy?"
"What does your approach look like in a typical session?"
"How do you measure progress in therapy?"
"Do you accept my insurance, and what's the out-of-pocket cost?"
Not Sure Where to Start?Candor Therapy Network is
accepting new clients.
In-person in Richmond and virtually across Virginia. Insurance accepted. Free 15-minute consultations available. We'll help you find the right fit within our practice — no pressure.