The relationship between you and your therapist is critical to your progress and ultimate success in therapy. In fact, the quality of this working alliance between a therapist and client is a strong predictor of success. No one therapist is right for everyone; it's important to find one who is right for you. To do this, you need to find a therapist who is both competent and a good match for you. How can you tell, and where do you start?

LOOK FOR SOMEONE WHO:

• can challenge you and teach you things about yourself

• you feel emotionally comfortable with

• you can communicate with easily

You can tell by your own reactions whether you feel comfortable with this person, especially when you are face-to-face. The therapist should be able to convey that they are on your side and that they are interested in you as a person. You can begin to form your own opinion during your first session. Ask questions. If you are not sure what to ask, inquire about their training, experience, or methods of counseling. You can also share what you are looking for and ask how they would go about helping you with it.

DON’T SETTLE:

Any therapist needs to earn your trust and respect by saying and doing things that make sense to you.
If one doesn't, keep looking.