Relationship issues are the most common problems of Americans. According to the American Psychological Association, about 50% of marriages end in divorce. Young couples also find it hard to handle their relationships. Some of the common causes are lack of time, money, infidelity, stress, arguments etc.
In a nutshell, not every relationship works out regardless of how hard you try. It’s the same thing between you and your therapist.
The same professional that your friend raves about might not be the one for you. It can be due to any number of factors: the poorly matched style of communication or the lack of professionalism – that turns you away from a therapist.
Regardless of what is creating the absence of connection between you and your therapist, you need to watch out for these telltale signs.
- The Therapist Is Too Impersonal
When you visit a therapist to talk about your problems, a certain degree of professional detachment is desirable in them, because it lets them offer impartial feedback, your interactions with the therapist should not feel clinical or cold. Good therapists will offer an empathetic environment where you’ll feel comfortable about sharing anything that is on your mind. They will take time to understand your issues and offer not only professional advice but also the care needed to overcome the problems.
- The Therapist Acts Too Familiar
Right on the opposite end of the spectrum, you will find therapists that are too relaxed and casual around the patients. If most of the sessions get to spend discussing things that do not connect to your issues, it’s a problem. They need to use the initial sessions to create a rapport with you. After that, it is time to deal with the deeper issues that you need to address.
If you live in New York, you will expect to find the best CBT therapists NYC and avail of their services. But, you should never get the impression that the professional is more interested in talking about their life and achievements than yours.
Of course, therapists can give you past examples to let you know that you are not the only one facing the issues. However, this should only be a minor part of the sessions.
- Your Therapist Is Quick To React Emotionally
An experienced CBT therapist will understand that not everyone goes through each phase of therapy at an equal pace. It is their job to make you rethink unhelpful patterns and inspire you to modify your thoughts and behavior for the better.
It can lead to several intense sessions of discussion. If your therapist keeps showing overtly emotional reactions of getting upset or angry with you every time, it is time to bid goodbye to them.
- Your Therapist Is Not Really Listening To You
Your therapist needs to have sufficient training in the art of listening. You should have their undivided attention while speaking so that you can complete your thoughts. If the therapist stops you midway and starts giving you advice before you have stopped speaking, you need to change your therapist.
The Bottom Line
There is no reason to feel that something is wrong with you if you could not connect with a particular therapist. Sometimes things don’t work out the way you expect, and you know it. So, it is better to look for a new therapist to be on the path to recovery.