It’s been a tough year and you may now be pondering the benefits of seeking a therapist. But what kind of therapist do you need?
This is one of the most common questions that can actually hold people back from seeking a therapist. The truth is, you don’t need to research therapist orientations such as Emotion Focused therapy, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, et. unless you have experience in therapy and understand the approach that resonated with you. Research has shown that the most important factor in personal growth is the therapeutic relationship.
What does that mean? At the beginning, it means feeling comfortable with the therapist and trusting your intuition after the consultation or first few sessions.
Does it feel like a good fit?
Is your therapist’s style of interaction feeling right for you?
When considering a therapist, it may be more important to understand what your own communication needs are, rather than how the therapist is oriented theoretically.
Does a therapist who actively listens with empathy help you organize your thoughts and feelings?
Do you prefer an interactive approach in order to process your feelings?
Do you welcome interpretations?
Do you want to be challenged?
If you don’t have answers to these questions, don’t worry. It will become clear to you quite quickly, what feels helpful and what doesn’t. And most importantly – don’t hesitate to provide feedback to your therapist. We want to know what you are experiencing in session. It’s an important factor in building a deep alliance that becomes the foundation for meaningful work.
Want to learn more? Contact me to ask any further questions to determine what kind of therapist you need.
