If you have taken the brave step to decide to go to therapy, I commend you. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask for help. When you are beginning the journey of therapy, it may feel confusing to know which therapist to choose or what to look for in a therapist to know that they are going to meet your needs. Here are a few characteristics to look for in a therapist to know you are receiving effective quality care.
1) They Are Consistent
An effective therapist shows up for your sessions and they do not cancel or reschedule frequently. They help you understand the expectations for treatment and all that it entails, such as going over informed consent and outlining what treatment may look like, depending on your presenting concern. If you are working with a treatment team, such as a physician, psychiatrist or dietitian, they are open and honest about ongoing collaboration and care.
2) They Don’t Make Assumptions About You or Your Story
They will ask in-depth assessment questions to fully understand you and your story. An effective therapist wants to understand the details about you and your life, and there will be a sense of curiosity without judgment through each and every session. They’ll have a desire to want to know you fully and will not make assumptions about how you have experienced your story or life. They will want to make you feel fully seen, understood, and heard throughout this process as well.
3) Asks About Goals and Checks In On Progress With Goals
They will collaborate with you to set intentional goals and then frequently check in on progress towards these goals. So, in a first session, a therapist might ask what brings you in, along with reviewing the intake paperwork prior to your session. They will collaborate with you on setting specific and achievable goals that lead towards a reduction of symptoms and a more values-led life. Further, an effective therapist supports you in identifying growth and celebrating goals being met.
4) They Encourage You and Challenge You
Effective therapists will encourage you, give you feedback, and challenge you. There will be a good balance of empathy and understanding alongside giving you feedback. Hopefully, your therapist demonstrates a sense of humility and you really feel that they understand your pain and suffering. They might not have walked the same road that you have walked, but there will be curiosity and you will have a feeling that your therapist embodies the idea that they are with you in your pain and suffering.
5) Offers You a Way Forward
Effective therapists give you a sense of hopefulness that you are not alone in your journey. They will provide you with a sense that there is a way forward and there is a light at the end of the tunnel of your pain. You have objective data that you are improving under their care; you notice symptoms are improving, shifting, and changing over time.
6) There Is A Felt Sense of Safety
Most importantly, you will feel a sense of safety with them and a sense of non-judgment; they will offer you an abundance of compassion. The idea of felt safety means that your body experiences a deep inhale and exhale. This means you are able to share whatever you need to with your therapist and they are not going to judge you; rather, they will hold space, be with you in it, and collaborate to make a plan together moving forward.You can trust that your therapist is with you through any issue, in every season, and can meet you wherever you are on your journey of mental health.
My hope is that you receive the care that you need and that you feel safe and seen on your therapeutic journey. You are worthy of receiving helpful, intentional, thoughtful, and compassionate care.
Compassionate Affirmation: “I am deserving of receiving helpful, intentional, thoughtful, and compassionate care.”
Additional Resource: If you are looking for a therapist who can help you navigate the waves of life, we would be honored to come alongside you and help you here at Anchored Counseling Company. Our therapists are compassionate, effective, and helpful. Fill out the form here to get connected with one of our therapists.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
Owner + Director
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Co. to assist in this mission.
The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirmed, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life.
To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or contact us here.
