How to Choose the Right Online Therapy Provider

Whether it’s your first time seeking therapy or you’ve worked with a counsellor before, finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. It’s a big decision—and for good reason. Therapy often happens at a time when we’re already feeling vulnerable, and the person you choose to talk to can have a real impact on your healing. Add in the cost and the sheer number of options available through online counselling in BC, and it’s easy to see why the process can feel stressful.

But here’s some reassurance: research consistently shows that the most important factor in whether therapy is effective isn’t the method or the theory—it’s the quality of the relationship between you and your therapist. That sense of “fit” you feel? It matters more than you think.

Let’s walk through a few key questions to ask yourself when choosing the right online therapist for you.

Do You Feel Safe and Understood?

One of the most important parts of a strong therapeutic relationship is feeling safe. While therapy often involves discussing difficult or painful experiences, you should still feel emotionally secure and understood in this space.

If you come from a marginalized community, it’s especially important to find a therapist who sees and affirms your identity. Whether you’re queer, non-binary, BIPOC, or navigating complex family dynamics, therapy can offer a kind of healing that comes from finally feeling truly seen.

Feeling safe doesn’t mean your therapist never challenges you—it means you feel comfortable enough to be your whole self, and that if something doesn’t feel right, you can bring it up. A good therapist will welcome that feedback.

Does the Therapist Share or Respect Your Lived Experience?

Therapists aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s a good thing. For many people, it’s essential to find someone who shares similar life experiences or at least has an informed understanding of your identity.

As a queer and non-binary person, I know how relieving it is to speak with someone who just gets the way you experience the world—without needing to educate them first. For BIPOC individuals, working with a therapist who understands the nuance of your culture or the deep impact of racism can make all the difference.

The right therapist doesn’t need to have lived your exact life, but they should be able to hold space for your experiences with empathy, knowledge, and respect.

Do You Trust Them?

Trust is the foundation of good therapy, especially for those living with trauma. If you’ve had difficulty trusting others in the past, you’ll want to find someone who understands how to slowly and respectfully build that trust with you. This is called trauma-informed practice, and it’s a core value at Lavender Grove Counselling. Our therapists work with the intention to create a consistent, predictable space where your voice and needs are respected.

Ask yourself: Is your therapist clear about their boundaries and policies? Do they listen and adapt to your preferences when possible? These things may seem small, but they build the sense of security that deep, meaningful therapeutic work depends on.

Do They Have Experience with What You’re Struggling With?

Not every therapist specializes in every topic—and that’s okay. When searching for online counselling services, take a moment to reflect on what you’re hoping to work through. Is it anxiety, relationship challenges, gender identity, OCD, or substance use? Look for someone who has specific training or experience in that area.

One of the biggest advantages of online counselling in BC is that you aren’t limited by geography. No matter where you live, you can access a wider range of expertise, rather than feeling like you have to settle for whoever is available nearby.

At Lavender Grove Counselling, our team brings a wide range of skills and training to the table. Whether you’re navigating queer and trans identity, family issues, or trauma recovery, we may have a therapist who’s a good match for your needs.

Will Their Schedule Work with Yours?

Let’s be real—life is busy. Between work, family, school, and community commitments, many people require therapy that accommodates a busy schedule. One of the perks of online counselling services is the added flexibility to meet at a time that works for you.

At Lavender Grove Counselling, our therapists offer evening and weekend appointments because we know that most people aren’t available between 9 and 5. Right now, both Andrea and Ben are accepting new clients during evening hours.

What About Fees and Insurance?

Before you commit, it’s a good idea to ask about rates, payment methods, and insurance coverage. At Lavender Grove Counselling, we accept credit cards and e-transfer payments. We also offer direct billing for FNHA and ICBC clients, though we currently don’t direct bill other insurers.

If you have extended health benefits, check whether they cover services provided by a registered social worker. We’ll provide a receipt you can submit for reimbursement, based on your plan’s policies. Please note that services are not covered by MSP at this time.

How Do You Feel After Talking to Them?

At the end of the day, the most important question is: How do you feel after speaking with them? Did you feel heard? Did you feel seen? Did you feel a sense of ease or curiosity about working with them further?

It can be hard to tell from an online profile whether you’ll click with a therapist. That’s why we offer free 15-minute phone or video consultations. This is your chance to ask questions about the therapist’s experience, their approach, and whether they might be a good fit for what you’re looking for.

After the consultation, take a moment to reflect on your thoughts. If it felt right, that’s a good sign.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re reading this, you may still be in the early stages of your therapy journey. That’s okay. In fact, getting curious about what you need and how you feel is one of the best places to start—and it’s a skill you’ll strengthen throughout your work in therapy.

If you’d like to see whether Lavender Grove Counselling might be the right place for you, we’d be happy to connect. You can book a free consultation directly through our online calendar or email us to initiate the process.

We’d be honoured to walk alongside you.