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How to Choose a Counselor or Therapist

By Noah Rubinstein, LMFT, LMHC

Featured on GoodTherapy.org, May 14, 2007

This article is not bang up to date, but the information is sound. It was created using  ideas from the members of GoodTherapy.org and goes on to outline 14 points to consider when choosing a counselor/ therapist who is the ‘right fit’ for you.

Rubenstein goes on to provide further detail in the full article, but here are those 14 questions well worth considering;

  1. What does it feel like for you to sit with the therapist?
  2. What’s the counselor’s general philosophy and approach to helping?
  3. Can the counselor clearly define how he or she can help you to solve whatever issue or concern has brought you to therapy?
  4. Does the counselor seek regular peer consultation?
  5. Can your counselor accept feedback and admit mistakes?
  6. Does the counselor encourage dependence or independence?
  7. Has your counselor done his or her own therapy?
  8. Does the therapist have experience helping others with the particular issues for which you are seeking therapy?
  9. Does the counselor make guarantees or promises? 
  10. Does your counselor adhere to ethical principles in regard to issues such as boundaries, dual relationships, and confidentiality?
  11. Is the counselor licensed?
  12. Does the counselor have a graduate degree?
  13. Does the counselor have postgraduate training?
  14. Have any complaints been filed with the board?

For the article in full, please select the following link;

http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/how-to-find-a-therapist