Finding the right therapist can feel like discovering a treasure chest of emotional growth and self-awareness. But how do you know when you’ve struck gold in therapy? Well, sometimes, it’s just a gut feeling — you’ll just feel it! Remember the last time you had a really good therapist? You definitely didn’t think much about why you felt they were the right choice.

However, let’s break it down into tangible signs so you can be confident in your choice. Here are 10 signs you’ve found a good therapist and answers to some related questions that might cross your mind.

How Do You Tell If You Have a Good Therapist? – 10 signs to look out for

A good therapist will embody qualities and behaviors that make you feel seen, heard, and supported. Here are the key signs to look out for:

They Make You Feel Safe: You feel emotionally secure in their presence. A good therapist creates a non-judgmental space where you can share your deepest thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism or rejection.
They Listen Actively: They say therapists are the world’s best listeners. Good therapists are excellent listeners. They don’t interrupt or make assumptions. Instead, they truly hear what you’re saying (and sometimes what you’re not saying), and they reflect on it thoughtfully.
They Validate Your Feelings: You won’t hear dismissive comments like, “It’s not that big of a deal.” Instead, a good therapist acknowledges your emotions and helps you process them, even if they challenge your perspective.
They Are Skilled Communicators: They explain concepts and therapeutic techniques in a way that makes sense to you. If something isn’t clear, they take the time to break it down or offer examples.
You See Progress: Like I always insist, give therapy time. However, even if progress is slow, you will notice positive changes in how you think, feel, or behave. A good therapist doesn’t just chat; they help you move forward with actionable insights.
They Challenge You Constructively: While they are supportive, they won’t shy away from encouraging you to confront uncomfortable truths or behaviors that might be holding you back.
They Maintain Professional Boundaries: A good therapist respects boundaries. They don’t overshare about their personal life or try to be your friend. Their focus is always on you and your well-being.
They Are Consistent: Imagine a therapist who does asks your name and age in the 10^th session with them! You’d be disappointed, right? A good therapist is one who remembers your sessions, you can rely on them to show up on time, and remain fully engaged. Consistency builds trust, which is vital in therapy.
You Feel Understood: Sometimes, you leave a session thinking, “Wow, they really get me.” That’s a good sign you’ve found a therapist who resonates with you.
They Respect Your Autonomy: A great therapist empowers you to make your own choices rather than telling you what to do. They are guides, not directors.

Related Article: If you’re wondering what happens when therapy doesn’t feel right, check out these 9 Sure Signs a Therapist is a Bad Fit for You

How Do You Know If Therapy Is Good for You?

Therapy is like trying on a new pair of shoes. At first, it might feel unfamiliar, but over time, it should start to feel comfortable and supportive. Here are some signs that therapy is benefiting you:

You’re Gaining Clarity: Therapy helps untangle your thoughts and make sense of your emotions.
You’re Implementing Changes: Whether it’s setting boundaries or trying new coping skills, you’re applying what you’ve learned.
You’re Feeling Empowered: Therapy should make you feel capable of facing life’s challenges, even if it’s tough sometimes.
Your Relationships Are Improving: Good therapy often has a ripple effect, positively impacting how you relate to others.

How Do You Know If Your Therapist Finds You Attractive?

It’s natural to wonder if your therapist likes you — they are human, after all. But in professional therapy, personal feelings should not interfere with the therapeutic relationship. Here are signs that your therapist is crossing professional boundaries:

They share personal feelings about you that go beyond professional admiration.
They flirt or make inappropriate comments.
They prioritize their emotions over your well-being during sessions.

If you ever feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and address it directly or consider finding a new therapist. Remember, therapy is a professional relationship, and maintaining boundaries is crucial.

Read this to see other Signs a Therapist is a Bad Fit for You

How Do You Know If Therapy Is Successful?

Therapy success doesn’t always mean a grand aha moment. Often, it’s the small, consistent changes that add up over time. Here’s how to gauge its effectiveness:

You Feel Better: Your mood improves, and you experience more moments of peace or happiness.
You’re Self-Aware: You recognize patterns in your behavior and emotions and can address them proactively.
You’ve Reached Your Goals: Whether it’s managing anxiety or building confidence, you’re hitting the targets you set with your therapist.
You Handle Setbacks Better: Life will still have challenges, but you cope with them more effectively.
You Need Therapy Less: Eventually, you may feel ready to reduce sessions or end therapy because you’ve gained the tools you need.

In Conclusion

Finding a good therapist is a deeply personal journey, but the signs are clear when you’ve found the right one. You’ll feel safe, understood, and motivated to grow. And yes, sometimes, you’ll just feel it. Trust your gut but let these tips guide you too.

If you’re ready to start or switch therapy, reach out to us through our Contact Page and book a session today! Make your mental health a priority!