How to Choose the Right Counsellor in Maple Ridge, BC

If you’re looking for a counsellor in Maple Ridge, BC (or nearby communities), you’ve probably noticed there are a lot of therapists to choose from. So, how do you decide who’s right for you?

Many people start their search for a counsellor while already feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out. When you’re running on empty, it’s tempting to go with the first therapist who answers your email or shows up on Google. That makes sense—our brains crave the path of least resistance when life feels too heavy.

But here’s the thing: choosing a therapist at random can be a gamble. Research shows that the relationship you build with your counsellor—called the therapeutic alliance—is one of the biggest factors in whether therapy is helpful. The right therapist can make all the difference in your healing journey.

That doesn’t mean the first therapist you find won’t be a good fit! But why leave it up to chance when you could take a little extra time to find someone who really “gets” you?

Why Fit Matters in Therapy

The right fit isn’t just about credentials—it’s about feeling safe, understood, and supported. A good therapeutic relationship helps you open up, stay engaged in the process, and ultimately get better results. Taking the time to find a counsellor who feels like the right match is one of the most powerful acts of self-care you can do for yourself.

Even if it feels tiring to “shop around” now, it can save you time, money, and frustration later. Think of it as an investment in your well-being—one that firmly places you on the path toward healing.

A Gentle Reminder

If you’re reading this, you’re already taking the first steps toward change—and that matters. Take a slow breath in. Feel your feet on the ground. Breathe out. You’ve got this.

Warmly,
Kirsten Boulier, MSW, RCSW
Counsellor and EMDR Therapist in Maple Ridge, BC