There are products, such as clothes and accessories, that indicate “One size fits all.” But does one size always fit all? In most cases … no. People come in many shapes and sizes. It would be impossible to design something that would truly fit all people. Most of us try things on to make sure we have the correct size, style and material that suits our body type, preferences and occasion. This idea, however, is not confined to clothing.

The “one size fits all” mentality has become a pervasive concept and is used to describe solutions intended to be universally applicable, including finding the right therapist. While this process may be more complex and emotionally significant than shopping for clothes, both require patience, self-awareness and a willingness to try again until you find the best fit. And just like the perfect outfit can make you feel confident and at ease, the right therapist can provide a sense of comfort, safety and empowerment in your mental health journey.

Struggles with the stigma surrounding mental health, potential feelings of shame and embarrassment, fear of the unknown, or even certain expectations of what therapy is “supposed” to be create barriers or unrealistic expectations. Working within law enforcement and having the traditional mindset of “Suck it up!” and “Asking for help is a sign of weakness” brings about an additional layer to overcome that can make it more difficult to seek out mental health services. But after getting past the stigma and uncomfortable feelings and building up the courage to make that initial call, there are other important considerations to be mindful of. Just like how we all have our favorite foods and hobbies that suit our tastes and personalities, finding the right therapist is also a personal journey.

What works for one person might not be the perfect match for another; one size does not fit all. You might be thinking, “What do you mean? I finally built the courage to call and make an appointment, and you are telling me that the person I see might not be the right one for me?”

People are usually quite selective when it comes to choosing products, forming friendships and certainly when picking a significant other. So, why should finding the ideal therapist be any different? Finding the right fit is important; otherwise, the benefits of therapy can be limited. Law enforcement personnel face unique challenges, including exposure to trauma and high-stress environments, making it even more important to find a therapist who truly understands their specific needs. Here are some recommendations to help you find the right therapist for you:

• Understand your needs. Reflect on what you want to address (e.g., anxiety, trauma, relationships) and whether you have preferences for certain therapist qualities (e.g., cultural competence, gender, specialization in specific therapy approaches). Tailoring the search for a therapist involves recognizing individual factors such as your role, personal challenges, cultural background and what makes you
feel comfortable.
• Navigate accessibility challenges. Seeking therapists experienced in law enforcement can save time and fit into demanding schedules. Additionally, if schedule, work hours, transportation or proximity are issues, consider telehealth options.
• Overcome mistrust or stigma. Educate yourself by learning about therapy and its benefits to demystify the process. Remember that therapy is private and bound by ethical standards. Start small by scheduling a consultation to see if the therapist is a good fit. Recognize mental health care as a tool for staying resilient and effective on the job.
• Do not hesitate to try again. It is OK if the first therapist is not a match. Prioritize building a good therapeutic relationship based on comfort and trust. Even if a therapist understands your needs, they might not feel like the right fit after a few sessions, and that is OK. It’s important to find someone with whom you feel comfortable and can build trust while also feeling confident in their ability to help you.

Taking the first step can feel daunting, but finding the right therapist can provide immense relief and help you build long-term resilience. Personalization is essential for effective mental health care, especially in a demanding profession like law enforcement. A thoughtful, individualized approach will ensure that therapy truly supports you in the ways you need. If you have additional questions, are interested in what Psychological Services Bureau has to offer or need assistance in navigating finding resources and your right fit, contact us at (213) 738-3500.