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Gavin HamnettMS, LMHC
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Finding the right person, not just a name

Practical ways to choose a therapist in the Hudson Valley or anywhere in New York.

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Who This Is For

Most people start the same way: a search, a directory like Psychology Today, and a long scroll of faces and paragraphs that begin to sound alike. It is easy to pick whoever has an opening and hope for the best.

Here is what I would tell a friend. Credentials and logistics matter, but the biggest thing is fit: whether you feel comfortable enough with this person to be honest, and whether the way they work makes sense to you. You can learn a surprising amount about both in a short phone call.

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What to Look For

  • A current license

    Check that the therapist is licensed to practice in New York.

  • An approach that makes sense

    Talk based, skills based, or body based. Read how they describe their work and notice what draws you.

  • Practical fit

    Fees, location, telehealth, and session times that work with your life.

  • How talking to them feels

    Whether you feel heard, unhurried, and comfortable asking questions.

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Questions Worth Asking

On a first call, it is fine to interview the therapist. Ask how they work, what a typical session looks like, and what they would focus on with someone in your situation. Ask how long therapy usually lasts with them, and how the two of you will know it is helping.

If you have been in therapy before, say what helped and what didn't, and listen to how they respond. A good therapist won't get defensive, and won't promise quick results either. Pay attention to your body during the call as well. Feeling a little nervous is normal. Feeling dismissed is worth noticing.

More about my approach
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What Sessions Look Like

  1. Shortlist two or three

    Read their websites, check the practical details, and notice who you are drawn to.

  2. Make the calls

    Many therapists offer a free phone consultation. Mine is 20 minutes, and you can ask me anything.

  3. Choose, then check in

    Give it a few sessions, then ask yourself honestly whether it feels like the right fit.

What Can Shift

Choosing well is worth the effort. I believe therapy should help people out of the desert and into the oasis of Self, not prolong the journey.

If my way of working sounds like it might fit, I would be glad to talk. If not, I hope these questions help you find the person who does.

Rates in Brief

Sessions are $160 for 55 minutes. The first step is a complimentary 20 minute phone consultation.

Rates
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Questions People Ask

Is it okay to switch therapists?

Yes. If it isn't a fit after a few sessions, it is fine to say so and look for someone else. A good therapist will understand.

In person or telehealth?

Both can work. In person suits people who want a separate space to come to, and telehealth suits busy schedules. I offer both, in Rhinebeck, in Hudson, and by telehealth anywhere in New York State.

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Start With a Free Consultation

Send me a short message and I'll set up a free 20 minute phone call.

Request a free consultation (845) 532-8336