Valentine's Day: Winnipeg therapist shares online dating tips

A Winnipeg therapist is sharing online dating tips to help Single Hearts Club members and hopeless romantics find their life partner this Valentine's Day.

Therapist Carolyn O. According to Klaassen, online dating has become so common that it has changed the way singles looking for love connect.

“In decades past, people would go bowling or join a choir even if they didn't like bowling or singing because it was an opportunity to go out and meet people when there were only two channels and no online streaming,” he said. .

Currently, downloading an app and sifting through singles' profiles can be a daunting and vulnerable task, Klassen said.

To be successful, he recommends being careful in choosing which platform to join and create your profile.

He also suggests contacting a few people to get started. The important thing, he says, is not to invest too much money in one person too soon and to take your time.

“If you buy clothes that last for years and years, you're not just wearing the first one. You try on a few times, and a great jacket might not be a great jacket for you,” he said.

Klassen also recommends being clear with yourself and the other person about your standards and expectations.

He also warns that much can be lost in electronic communication.

“A lot of times people will take a few text messages and they'll network that connection and it's going to develop faster than they build organically and you can put so much stock into a few messages.”

There are also safety tips to keep in mind. The therapist says it's important to listen to your gut because there are people on these apps who expect an advantage.

Warning signs to watch for are the other person moving at an unnatural speed and not wanting to talk on the phone or video.

When meeting in person, Klassen says to take precautions, too.

In general, the therapist says that online dating can be a way to find a life partner and that intention should be welcomed.

“It's a sign of courage and awareness to say, 'This is something that's important to me and I'm going to keep doing it.'”

– With files from CTV's Rachel Lagasse