Psy.D.

Characteristics of an Effective Therapist

Some therapists consistently achieve better outcomes with their patients, regardless of their therapeutic orientation. These therapists have a set of interpersonal skills collectively referred to as ‘Common Factors.’ While the outcome of therapy depends on many factors, research has shown that these common qualities in a therapist increase the odds of a successful outcome.  You can use the following criteria in evaluating both prospective mental health professionals as well as your ongoing therapy.

​

The effective therapist…

• is warm, empathic, respectful and non-judgmental.     

• possesses sophisticated interpersonal skills.  He or she puts you at ease, is astute at sensing what you are thinking and feelings and puts the focus of therapy on you not him or herself.

• is confident and professional in his or her presentation, dress and demeanor. 

• uses a type of therapy that has been demonstrated to be appropriate for your specific needs.

• demonstrates an essential understanding of the problems or issues for which you are seeking help. 

• provides explanations and education that patients can understand.

• is able to shift accordingly as treatment progresses.

• conveys the value and worth of treatment.  He or she communicates in such a way that patients feel secure in the knowledge the therapist knows what they're doing and why.  They instill a sense of hope and optimism about your chances of improvement.

• possesses the qualifications, training and experience to work with your particular issues, and is willing to discuss his or her expertise when asked. 

• is clear about the business aspects of the relationship such as meeting times, scheduling, fees and methods of payment.

• explains issues of confidentiality, treatment goals and planning, diagnosis, informed consent about various treatment options, his or her availability outside of session, backup during his or her absence (such as vacations), and procedures for emergencies.

• takes into account a patient’s cultural values, including showing respect for your background and being aware of attitudes within your culture or community.   

• actively monitors the progress of therapy and communicates in this regard on a regular basis.

• engages in continuing education to maintain their credentials and advance and refine their clinical knowledge and skills.

​

A therapist with questionable effectiveness may...

• arrive late, takes phone calls during session, forget appointments, look harassed and unkempt, or otherwise appear not disorganized at a basic level.

• seem to lack overall direction and have no plan about what you two are doing.

• seem as puzzled as you do about your problems.

• be repetitive and seem to rely on sympathetic platitudes such as "Trust me." or "Things will get better."

• conduct the therapy hour without direction and seeming more like amiable chitchat with a friend.

• seem to be controlling you, sequestering you from family, friends, and other advisers.

• ask that you not talk about therapy outside of your session. 

• talk too much about him or herself. 

• make him or herself a major figure in your life, keeping you overly focused on your relationship with him or her.

• facilitate a focus on only the negative aspects of your life.

• violate boundaries by discussing your information outside of session, disclosing too much personal information, or trying to physically touch you.