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 start creating your online dating profile, it can feel exciting, energizing, and also nerve-wracking! To get the best matches, it’s important, to be honest with yourself and clear in your answers about what you’re looking for. This could include your expectations for a partner, your dating goals, and your lifestyle.
Being as specific as possible will help you find matches that are best suited to you. When you’re clear and upfront about your expectations, you’ll find it easier to attract like-minded people who are a good fit for you, and it will likely save you time and frustration in the long run. As an online relationship therapist, I’ve helped many people with this first step of getting clarity on dating and relationship issues.
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!
I know it may sound simple, but the key to success in online dating truly is to be yourself. When you’re relaxed and honest about who you are, you’re more likely to attract people who appreciate you as you are. Don’t try to be someone you’re not in an effort to make someone like you! Dating counseling can help get you to a place of greater self-acceptance to be more relaxed and yourself.
Relationships based on pretense will not make you or the other person happy for long. Authenticity and honesty are the only way to build a true, meaningful 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:
Reach out for a free consultation or schedule it online.
Schedule your appointment for therapy for dating
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. While I provide counseling services virtually throughout California, my coaching services are available to anyone in the United States. To learn more check out my Blog!
