The foundation of therapy is the relationship established between you and your therapist.  Research has shown that the approach or technique the therapist uses is less important than the relationship you build together.  As therapy progresses, you will actually use the relationship as a workspace to resolve problems in your life.

There are several considerations that are important in your choice of a therapist.  Some of these qualities are External, and some are Internal.

External considerations might include:

• Years of experience
• Licensure by the state
• Membership in professional bodies that provide ongoing training and education
• References of friends, family or other professionals
• Location and ease of access in their schedule
• Fees for service that are reasonable relative to other therapists in your area
• Provider status with your insurance center
• Flexibility in payment of fees

Internal considerations might include:

• Feeling comfortable and at ease
• Feeling respected
• Feeling understood and really heard
• Growing trust in their competency and ability to help
• Feeling empathy and engagement in building the relationship and solving problems
• Increasing confidence in your ability to meet the goals of your treatment

The value placed on any one of these qualities will vary from person to person.  One person will value the coverage by their insurance, and others will value feeling respected and cared for.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

You should also feel free to ask your therapist questions about treatment.  Typical questions include:

• How long have you been providing psychotherapy?
• Where else have you worked and with what populations?
• What is your philosophy of treatment?
• How many people with my kind of problem or concern have you treated?
• How long will treatment take?
• What are the risks/benefits and options of treatment?
• How will I know I am making progress?