My therapist gives me a lot of feedback during our sessions, not only on the subject we are discussing at the time, but also relates it back to previous sessions. She looks at my journal and discusses issues and incidents I record there. Plus she communicates with my psychologist and psycharitrist.

somebody you click with...you've gotta be able to connect with your therapist...

my new therapist also came recommended by two different agencies...she is well known in the community and has 20+ years of experience in her field (trauma therapy)

I also liked the fact that she is in an office with other therapists who specialize in other types of therapy....so if she recommends it, I may get acupuncture or massage therapy

competency, compassion, insight, non-judgmental attitude and knowing she is on my side rooting for me

wisdom, compassion, and bitchin' insight. i want to learn...but life gives me enough 'tough love'...so i want to be supported as well ::wink::

They keep abreast of new treatments hitting market, are bright & insightful & I feel at ease (as much as can be with a headshrinker) with them,...they aren't all Old Boys Club.
Open & trustworthy. A mean sense of humor is a major plus. (had a hilarious shrink once, until he died, good times...way 'therapeutic')

Wisdom. Emotional Smarts. Compassion. Kindness.

Irreverence. Seriously. Dangerous when they are sheep.

So do you interview them? Or do you just start off telling them about your problems right away? How do you go about "shopping"?

Mine came recommended from the private hospital I was in. Nice enough woman, we just didn't connect. I gave her up a month or so ago and just use Shelly4 now. LOL

I shopped a little. I have not come across a therapist who minds being asked a few questions. First and most importantly I ask how much expearence they have with bipolar. I ask if they are willing to give feedback, and then I present my journal. I also give it a few sessions to get a feel for their technique.

Before your first session, write a list of questions for the therapist to make sure you know what you want to ask. They are there for you, and it is important the relationship will work.

Good luck.

Hey Shelly4, are you accepting new clients?

SHHHH!! Shelly doesn't know this otherwise she would start charging me.

Thanks, Belinda1977, the list of Q's is a good idea. I have begun a mood chart. I don't really know what to write in a journal...

first i have to feel comfortable to be able to cry in front of them. because i spend alot of time crying in therapy..if i dont feel comfortable doing that then there is no point going on...

After visiting the therapist (the rapist) I go home and have the same conversation with the wall and then then dog. If I feel like I get more out of talking to the wall or the dog, I move on to the next therapist. Unless she has a smokin' hot bod.

LOL QuackedUp love your avitar... is that you?