Quality Therapists Matter. Here Are the Traits You Should Look For

Discover the key traits of an effective therapist that can transform your mental health journey. Find hope, support, and guidance.

Finding a good therapist can be a daunting task for anyone, and it’s not uncommon for many to feel overwhelmed by the process. In fact, a recent survey found that 72% of people found the process of finding a new therapist to be overwhelming, and the average American will go through three therapists before finding one that’s the right fit for them. This can be a costly and frustrating endeavor since the average cost of therapy is between $30-$50 per session. That’s why it’s crucial to know what traits to look for in a quality therapist before committing to a treatment plan.

Great therapy starts with a great client-therapist relationship. Clients who are happy with their therapists tend to have better mental health outcomes. In this article, we’ll explore the key traits that set great therapists apart from the rest, so you can spend less time searching and more time feeling better.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to make the best possible choice in finding a therapist who can help you live your brightest life. We understand that finding a quality therapist can be a challenging task, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s dive into the traits that make a good therapist, so you can start your journey toward mental wellness with confidence.

Why do quality therapists matter? 

There are many factors that go into effective therapy, both on the clients’ and therapists’ ends. However, one of the main factors is called therapeutic alliance. In short, this is the relationship between the client and the therapist, and has three main components:

• A positive emotional bond
• Agreement on tasks and goals during therapy
• Perceived openness and truthfulness between client and therapist

These three traits make a strong client-therapist relationship, which can lead to more effective therapy. So, it’s important to choose a therapist who fits you and who you feel comfortable with. 

What makes a good therapist?

There are many traits that make a good and effective therapist, some of them completely subjective. A good therapist for one person may not be a good therapist for another; it’s not a one-size-fits-all industry. 

However, research has shown us that there are a few traits that therapists can have that communicate effectiveness in therapy: 

• Adaptable: Studies have shown that a therapist who is attuned to a client’s changing thoughts, feelings, and perspective from session to session is more likely to provide effective therapy. People change, especially during therapy, and the therapist should be able to keep up easily with these changes. 

1. Openness: Being open-minded and receptive allows therapists to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to share their thoughts and feelings without fear.
2. Agreeableness: Therapists who possess agreeableness traits are empathetic and compassionate, fostering a sense of trust and understanding that promotes a strong therapeutic alliance.
3. Conscientiousness: A conscientious therapist demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to providing high-quality care. They pay attention to detail and stay organized, ensuring clients receive consistent support.
4. Reflective: Therapists who are reflective engage in self-reflection, continually evaluating and improving their practice. This self-awareness enables them to adapt their approach, enhancing the effectiveness of therapy.
5. Supportive: Supporting therapists establish a nurturing environment where clients feel heard, validated, and encouraged. They provide emotional support and guidance throughout the therapeutic process, empowering clients on their journey to healing.
6. Affirming: Affirming therapists validate and acknowledge the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of their clients. Through affirmations, they help clients build self-esteem, promoting self-acceptance and growth.
7. Providing accurate interpretations: This is something you’ll have to judge once you’re inside a therapy session. Sometimes, it’s hard to put exactly what you mean into words. You may struggle to explain your experience to your therapist, and then they can interpret what you really mean. When they do this, you’ll usually have one of two responses: Yes, that’s it exactly, or No, that wasn’t it at all! A good therapist (for you) will provide accurate interpretations. 
8. Facilitating emotional expression: An important part of therapy is being able to safely express your emotions. It’s all too common to hold your emotions in or express them in unhealthy ways. Therefore, a good therapist will be able to help you express your own emotions in a way that is conducive, healthy, and safe.

These traits make good therapists because they create a foundation of trust, safety, and collaboration between the therapist and the client. They enhance the therapeutic relationship and facilitate a healing environment, allowing clients to explore their challenges, develop insights, and make positive changes in their lives.

Also, studies have shown that a client’s own personality is also very important in matching therapists with clients. For example, someone who values straightforwardness might not do well with a therapist who dances around the point. 

The importance of a quality therapist during mental health counseling cannot be overstated. As Daniel Belcher, CEO of the leading mental health company Lifebulb, puts it: “We understand that happy therapists lead to better outcomes for our clients. That’s why Lifebulb is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters their personal and professional growth. We believe that by prioritizing the well-being of our therapists, we are cultivating a culture of compassion and excellence that positively impacts everyone we serve.”

As you’re looking for a therapist to help you through your challenges this Mental Health Awareness Month, keep these traits in mind. Don’t settle for less, and switch if you don’t click with your therapist. A good therapist can make or break your therapy experience. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality, effective therapists out there who can meet your needs.