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psychology

How to pick a good therapist in 2026

Équipe Nina · 2026-02-05 · 6 min

Choosing a therapist is an investment in your wellbeing — but also a decision that costs money and time. Here are the 6 things to check before you book.

1. Diploma & protected title

In most countries, only holders of a Master's degree in Psychology registered with the relevant professional body (ADELI in France, HCPC in the UK, APA in the US) can legally call themselves "psychologist". Coaches, psychotherapists, or psychopractitioners may be excellent, but their training differs. On Nina, each verified professional displays their diploma.

2. Specialty vs generalist

Anxiety, burnout, trauma, couples, teens: approaches differ. CBT works well for anxiety, EMDR is designed for trauma, systemic therapy for couples. Read the specialty shown before you book.

3. Therapeutic approach

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): structured, solution-focused, 10-20 sessions
  • Psychodynamic / psychoanalytic: deep exploration, long-term
  • Systemic: family, couples, relationships
  • EMDR: trauma-specific

4. Chemistry after the first session

According to research, this is criterion #1. If you don't feel comfortable after 2-3 sessions, switch without guilt.

5. Format: office, video, hybrid

Video sessions are as effective as in-person for most common issues (meta-analyses 2020-2024). It removes geographic constraints.

6. Price and reimbursement

€50-€120 depending on the country and city. In France, MonSoutienPsycho covers 12 sessions/year with an eligible psychologist. Check availability with your provider.

Ready to start?

On Nina, filter by specialty, city, budget and format (online/office). Book without upfront payment — you only pay after confirmation.

Ready to take action?

Find the right specialist in 30 seconds on Nina.

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