What are some red flags to look out for in a therapist?

When going for therapy it is very important to find the right match for you. However, the selection process can often be confusing. Here are some basic things to keep in mind:

• Qualification: According to the norms in India, the minimum qualification for a therapist is a Masters in psychology or any other equivalent specialization within the field of psychology, along with field experience in therapy. Somebody without these qualifications should not be treating you under the title of a ‘therapist’.

• Unprofessional: The therapist is rude, intoxicated or eating during the session, using inappropriate language that makes you feel uncomfortable, or not upholding other basic standards of professionalism.

• Unethical: They are judgemental, share your confidential information without your consent, bring in a third party observer to a session without your consent, etc.

• Too passive or inattentive: The therapist seems like they are not listening, makes you feel ignored, and/or doesn’t engage with you or the concerns you raise.

• Closing sessions properly: You may feel like you leave the session feeling worse than you came in; sometimes in therapy, you deal with and talk about difficult things, and it is the responsibility of the therapist to ensure that you are okay before ending the session and give appropriate help if you aren’t, and even affirm your feelings and emotions.

In conclusion, even if it’s a situation where you feel like you there aren’t obvious red flags but things just don’t feel right, that can still be a red flag for you. The therapist could be great and very experienced but still may not be right for you and that is okay. You are seeking help for your mental health and it is completely alright to look around until you find a therapist you are truly comfortable with.

By Nancy, an intern at The Alternative Story