Beliefs and Intentions
The beliefs and intentions held by a therapist can be significant indicators about the kind of therapeutic experience you will have. How a therapist works with you can be as important as what techniques are used.
As a therapist, I greatly appreciate the benefits of treatment. When I seek help for myself I look for technical excellence. But equally important, I want to know what kind of person the therapist is, how she or he works and how she or he thinks about therapeutic relationships.
I want a therapist who will approach my needs with sensitivity, compassion and understanding. I look for someone who will support my healing deeply but non-intrusively. I want a therapist who can be flexible in different situations and provide the right amount of support, whether it be work on a simple injury or extended treatment for chronic headaches.
These qualities in a therapist are important to me and I have found that my clients also consider them important.
Additionally I believe there are three additional ingredients in a good therapeutic relationship.
Comfort
You should not have to endure additional pain, stress or anxiety to get well. Methods should be available that are within your comfort zone.
Understanding and Respect
You have a right to be accepted for who you are and what you are experiencing. You should have time to integrate treatment experiences, ask questions and understand what is happening.
Time and Flexibility
You should receive help that is tailored to your personal situation and be able to choose the amount of help you want. It should be acknowledged that some problems and symptoms can be resolved to an acceptable level without an extensive amount of treatment.