Do NOT use an unvetted therapist (and good god, therapy via text?) You’ve got folks with a Master’s of Social Work (not a diss against the profession) who had a 6 week counseling rotation who are getting themselves hired via these apps. Compare that to the training, ongoing professional development AND constant supervision of someone with a doctorate in clinical psychology who is held to high professional standards AND has had years of experience providing therapy.
Yes, the personal connection is important. But finding someone who has been professionally trained with ongoing instruction, lifelong learning in the field- that’s the gold standard. You don’t want someone who is googling to find out “why are HS kids taking ketamine” or “what is an effective intervention for someone with an eating disorder”.
Google is great. Professional training is better.