How to Find a Therapist in Austin, Texas or California | Seanna Crosbie, LCSW-S

Finding the right therapist is like finding a good pair of shoes. They should fit you just right, offering support where you need it, but also feel comfortable in your own skin. Whether you're in Austin, Texas, or California, choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming, but it’s an essential step toward healing, growth, and self-discovery.

Over the years, I’ve heard from many prospective clients who’ve worked with other therapists and walked away frustrated or disillusioned. They often tell me things like, “They just listened to me vent” or “Sometimes I felt that they wanted to impose their values on me.” While venting is part of the process, therapy should be more than just talking—it should be about transformation. If your therapist is simply nodding along without guiding you toward deeper self-awareness or offering tools to move forward, you may not be getting the support you deserve.

Great therapy isn't about just talking, it's about transformation.

So, what should you be looking for when you’re trying to find the right fit? Here are five green flags to help you navigate the process:

1. You Can Challenge Them

Great therapy is not a one-way street. You should feel like you can ask questions, voice concerns, and challenge your therapist’s ideas if something doesn’t sit right with you. A therapist who is open to being challenged is someone who respects your perspective and isn’t invested in being “right.” This collaborative approach helps you build trust and ensures your voice is heard throughout the process.

2. You Feel Safe and Heard

The foundation of therapy is a space where you feel safe enough to share your deepest fears and joys. If your therapist makes you feel like they’re listening—truly listening—without judgment, that’s a major green flag. The more you feel heard, the more you’ll be able to dig into the heart of your issues. Feeling safe means that you can be vulnerable and explore uncomfortable emotions at your own pace, without fear of being dismissed or misunderstood.

3. They Respect Your Autonomy

A good therapist doesn’t dictate what you should do; instead, they guide you in making your own decisions. They will encourage you to think critically and come to your own conclusions, recognizing that you are the expert of your own life. Your autonomy is vital to the therapeutic process—after all, therapy isn’t about making someone else’s decisions for you. It’s about empowering you to take control of your choices and your path.

4. They’re Knowledgeable and Ethical

Knowledge and ethics go hand in hand in great therapy. A knowledgeable therapist brings a wealth of expertise to the table, but they should also demonstrate integrity and professionalism in everything they do. They should be well-versed in evidence-based practices and be transparent about their approach. They will also be upfront about their credentials, areas of expertise, and any limitations they may have. You should feel like they are not only capable but also trustworthy, guiding you with ethics at the core of their practice.

5. They Value (Their!) Self-Evolution

A therapist who values self-evolution is one who believes in growth—not just for you, but for themselves, too. This means they stay curious, are open to learning new approaches, and recognize that personal development is an ongoing process. A therapist who doesn’t just stay stagnant in their practice, but actively seeks ways to evolve, will help you do the same. You want a therapist who will challenge you, encourage your growth, and celebrate the milestones along your journey.

How to Know If You've Found the Right Fit

Pay attention to how you feel. Do you feel safe enough to be vulnerable, yet empowered to challenge and question what you’re hearing? Does the therapist make you feel like you’re an equal partner in the process? Do they respect your autonomy and guide you with knowledge and empathy? The right therapist will help you move from simply “venting” to truly transforming your life.

Remember, therapy isn’t just about talking; it’s about making changes that help you feel better equipped to navigate the challenges life throws your way. If you find someone who listens, respects your autonomy, challenges you, and helps you evolve, you've found a therapist who can help you achieve real transformation.

If you're ready to start that journey, I’m here to help. Whether you're navigating grief, trauma, anxiety, or relationship issues, my approach blends evidence-based therapy with deep insight-oriented approaches.

Reach out when you're ready to take the next step toward healing and growth.

Feel free to contact me here.

Seanna Crosbie, LCSW-S