Wall Street Journal
“Help Wanted: A Good Therapist” by Melinda Beck
I think that this article will resonate with many of you who have experience with therapists and it will provide helpful suggestions for those of you who are thinking about starting therapy or looking for a therapist.
According to a 2007 statistic, 9 million Americans or 3% of the population had out-patient therapy.
Finding a therapist who is a good fit can be challenging. I was reminded of this during a recent conversation with someone who was recounting his therapist experiences and what has worked for him including coping strategies that he still utilizes when he is struggling.
In the article, Melinda Beck explains that “therapy can be painful, particularly if you are confronting fears or reopening old wounds. So, if you have a therapist who is “too hard” and “you dread every session or feel the therapist isn’t empathetic, it may be a bad fit.” Conversely, a therapist who is “too soft” may not be a good fit either. “The therapist shouldn’t be your best friend. Supportive listening can be soothing, but if the therapy doesn’t challenge your thinking and push you to change, you may not make much progress.” The most successful therapy—“the right fit”—occurs when it is collaboration—“the patient and therapist often agree on a diagnosis, share insights and set measurable goals. You should feel connected intellectually and emotionally and comfortable enough to make changes.”
