7 Tips For Online Dating In Los Angeles From a Dating Coach
Our society has changed exponentially over the past few years, and online dating has become a popular and accepted way for people to meet potential partners. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this societal shift, with many individuals suffering from social isolation reaching out for connection through online dating.
However, if you’re new to online dating and live in the Los Angeles area, getting started with online dating can feel daunting and even overwhelming. As a mental health therapist specializing in relationships, I deeply understand the unique emotional challenges that come with online dating. My goal in this article is to give you some guidance to help make online dating work better for you.
Navigating Online Dating in Los Angeles, CA
As a dating coach in Los Angeles, here are my 7 top tips to help you navigate the online dating world in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York and find the love and connection you are looking for.
Tip #1 - Clarify Your Own Expectations
When you're setting up your online dating profile, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness! To attract the most compatible matches, honesty and clarity about your desires are key. This includes being upfront about your expectations for a partner, your specific dating goals, and your lifestyle. Often, why relationships don't work out boils down to mismatched expectations from the start.
Being as specific as possible in your profile can significantly improve your chances of finding well-suited individuals. When you're clear and direct about what you’re looking for, you'll likely attract like-minded people who are a good fit, potentially saving you considerable time and frustration in the long run. As an online relationship therapist, I've guided many individuals through this initial step of gaining clarity on their dating and relationship goals.
Tip #2 - Choose a Dating Platform That’s Right For You
There are many online dating platforms available, and many serve different demographics of people with varying goals. It can feel overwhelming to find the one that fits your needs best, but it’s worth the effort! Think about your needs, preferences, goals, and lifestyle when choosing a platform. While some platforms are centered on long-term relationships, others are more focused on casual dating.
Take some time to research the platforms you’re interested in. Doing this work in advance can save you a LOT of frustration down the line.
Tip #3 - Don’t Rush It
When you really want to meet someone, it can be tempting to rush through the process just so you can meet someone - almost anyone! Online dating can sometimes feel like a mad dash around Costco, grabbing every product that strikes your fancy, but if you want to find a match that’s ideal for you, it’s important to take your time. As an online dating coach, I help clients pace themselves through this process.
Thinking about your options, considering if someone is likely to be a good match for you, and then taking the time to get to know them through messaging and video chats can be a good way to figure out if this is someone you like BEFORE you take the super scary step of meeting in person!
Your goal is to have a successful relationship - whatever that looks like for you - so don’t pressure yourself to rush.
Tip #4 - Look Out For Any Red Flags
Stay alert to any red flags that may tell you the person you’re messaging might not be who they say they are. Some things to look out for could include:
Inconsistencies in their stories
Evasiveness
Requests for money (yes, this really does happen!)
If you see any of these red flags, take a step back and think about how you want to handle this before you move things forward any further.
Tip #5 - Be Yourself!
While it might seem obvious, the real secret to succeeding in online dating is simply being genuine. When you are at ease and truthful about who you are, you have a higher chance of attracting people who value you for your true self. Avoid the temptation to pretend to be someone you're not in an effort to be liked! Seeking dating counseling can help you cultivate greater self-acceptance, enabling you to relax and be authentic, which in turn will help you stop overthinking in a relationship.
Relationships that start with a false image are unlikely to bring long-term happiness to either person. Authenticity and honesty are the only way to create a truly meaningful and lasting connection.
Tip #6 - Get Support From People You Trust
Online dating can be challenging and frustrating, and it’s important to know you have stability with the people who care about you. Look for advice and encouragement from people you know truly care about you already. Online dating can sometimes be difficult for others to understand if they haven’t experienced it themselves, so getting support from a mental health therapist who can guide them through the emotional challenges can be helpful.
Tip #7 - Take Care Of Yourself
Although it can be fun and exhilarating, dating in any form can also be emotionally draining. Make sure to prioritize self-care. Take breaks when you need to, and do things that bring you joy and help you relax.
Setting boundaries and sharing them openly with potential partners can also help you feel safe and respected. Your emotional well-being is important, and you have the right to make it a priority.
Online dating can be challenging, but it can also be satisfying and exciting when you find someone who is a good fit for you. It can be worth all the effort to find that special someone!
If you’re not sure where to start or if you’re struggling to find the right matches for you, reach out for help today. I’m a licensed therapist serving the Los Angeles Area. I specialize in relationship challenges, including navigating the world of online dating, and I’d love to support you through your journey!
Interested in Therapy for Dating in Los Angeles, CA?
Are you tired of swiping left and right without any success in finding a meaningful connection? It's time to take action and seek the help of a dating coach in Los Angeles. With my expertise in therapy for dating, I can guide you in identifying your dating patterns and provide you with personalized strategies to navigate the online dating world and find the love you deserve. Don't wait any longer; take the first step toward a fulfilling relationship by following these three simple steps:
Contact Steven today for a free consultation or schedule it online.
Start getting support from Therapy for Adults when it comes to dating and finding a partner that’s best for you!
Other Therapy Services I Offer in Los Angeles, CA
In addition to therapy for dating, I also offer dating coaching, couples therapy, and marriage counseling. At Therapy For Adults, I also provide services for highly sensitive people and those with anxiety. To learn more, check out my blog!
