QUIZ: Which Type of Therapy or Coaching Is Right for You?

There are so many different types of therapy and coaching that it can be hard to know which form is best for you. We have been there, and we get it. We’ve put together this simple quiz to help you narrow down which forms of support may be the best fit.

Are you looking for the therapist who is the best fit for you? Try our free practitioner matching questionnaire to be matched with a therapist or coach who is the right fit for your unique needs.

In order to take this assessment well...

Imagine a person in your life who you tend to lean on when you are in high-stress situations. If many people are coming to mind, you are lucky! Just choose the first, no pressure.

If it is challenging to think of someone in your life, that's totally normal--try choosing a TV or movie character who comforts or empowers you.

Realllllly picture them, as though they are sitting across the table from you. Whoever this person is, hold their image in your mind as you complete this assessment.

As you proceed, more than one answer may resonate with you. That is normal and absolutely okay. Choose the one that most resonates with you in this given moment; this assessment is designed to compile all of your answers together to surface the best fit overall, and your fit can change with time!

Which type of therapy is best for you?

While finding a therapist can be a little daunting, figuring out which type of therapy is right for you can be even more confusing. There are dozens of therapeutic approaches and many therapists don't practice just one. Instead, they pull elements from different approaches and tailor their treatment according to each client's needs. Let's navigate the diverse landscape of therapeutic approaches and coaching styles, helping you find the path that aligns with your journey.

Counseling and Psychotherapy

Therapy delves into the depths of your experiences, emotions, and thought patterns. It is a collaborative journey with a licensed mental health professional aimed at fostering self-awareness, understanding, and healing. Therapy is ideal for individuals dealing with mental health conditions, navigating trauma, seeking emotional support, or exploring profound self-discovery. It is a therapeutic alliance dedicated to addressing deep-seated issues and promoting overall mental well-being.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

In the realm of practicality and tangible change, CBT stands tall. If you're navigating specific challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress and desire actionable strategies, CBT might be your compass. It delves into identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors, offering a roadmap to transform your mental landscape.

Psychodynamic Therapy

For those intrigued by the depths of the unconscious mind, psychodynamic therapy invites exploration. Ideal for those seeking to understand the root causes of present challenges, this approach unveils the threads connecting past experiences to current behavior. It's a journey into self-discovery, fostering a profound understanding of the intricacies shaping your narrative.

Humanistic Therapy

In the garden of holistic growth, humanistic therapy blossoms. If you're drawn to a path that emphasizes self-exploration, personal growth, and the realization of your full potential, humanistic therapy offers a nurturing environment. It's about embracing your authenticity, fostering self-awareness, and cultivating a sense of fulfillment.

Specialized Therapies: Navigating Unique Challenges

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Balancing the dance of acceptance and change, DBT is a guiding light for emotional regulation. If intense emotions or borderline personality disorder are part of your journey, DBT provides a compass. It equips you with skills to navigate challenging emotions while fostering acceptance of yourself and your experiences.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

In the realm of mindfulness and embracing life's challenges, ACT invites you to a transformative journey. If living in alignment with your values despite adversities speaks to you, ACT empowers. It weaves mindfulness and acceptance into a tapestry that guides you towards a purposeful and value-driven life.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

For those carrying the weight of traumatic memories, EMDR offers a path to healing. Guiding you through the process of processing trauma, EMDR leverages guided eye movements. It's a therapeutic tool that can pave the way to reclaiming your narrative and fostering resilience.

Coaching: Empowering Your Potential

Coaching is ideal for individuals seeking guidance in achieving specific goals, navigating life transitions, enhancing career trajectories, or cultivating a healthier lifestyle. It is a collaborative process that empowers you to take charge of your life and move toward a desired future.

Life Coaching

In the realm of empowerment and goal achievement, life coaching stands as a beacon. If you're navigating life transitions, setting and achieving goals, or seeking clarity in your path, life coaching provides actionable steps. It's a partnership that empowers you to unlock your potential and shape the life you envision.

Career Coaching

For those standing at the crossroads of professional growth, career coaching offers guidance. Whether you're seeking a career change, advancement, or clarity in your professional journey, career coaching aligns with your aspirations. It's a collaborative process designed to elevate your career to new heights.

Wellness Coaching

In the pursuit of holistic well-being, wellness coaching emerges as a supportive ally. If you're navigating lifestyle changes, health goals, or seeking balance in your well-being, wellness coaching provides a roadmap. It's a partnership dedicated to nurturing your overall health and helping you thrive.

Choosing Between Therapy and Coaching: Your Compass

Consider Your Needs

If you're navigating mental health challenges, trauma, or seeking profound self-exploration, therapy may be your compass. It provides a supportive space to address deep-seated issues and prioritize mental well-being.

Clarify Your Goals

If your focus is on achieving specific goals, overcoming obstacles, or enhancing your personal or professional life, coaching could be your guide. It's a proactive partnership centered around actionable steps and empowerment.

Personal Comfort and Connection

Ultimately, the decision between therapy and coaching often comes down to personal comfort and connection. Reflect on your preferences, the level of support you're seeking, and the rapport you feel with the professional

Which type of therapy is best for you?

While finding a therapist can be a little daunting, figuring out which type of therapy is right for you can be even more confusing. There are dozens of therapeutic approaches and many therapists don't practice just one. Instead, they pull elements from different approaches and tailor their treatment according to each client's needs.

If you’ve been to therapy before and have had a positive experience, you might want to reach out to that provider or check out their website and find out what type of training they had or what style they were using and try to replicate that. If this is your first time seeking support, there are a few things you can consider when figuring out which type of therapy might suit you best.

Remember that what aligns best with your needs can evolve as time goes on, and that's perfectly normal. Maintain open and honest communication with your chosen provider, sharing the priorities that matter to you during this specific phase of your life.

And if you’re wondering if you would even benefit from therapy or you’re unsure about how to get started, check out our ultimate guide to starting therapy and find your perfect match.

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