Warning Signs to Look For When Talking With a Counselor
If any of the following Warning Signs describes your experience with your prospective counselor, then there may not be a good match between you and the counselor; and you may want to consider seeking another counselor.
Your Counselor ...
- Does not have sufficient training to address your issues.
- Has unresolved complaints filed with their licensing board.
- Makes guarantees or promises to you.
- Is judgmental or critical of your behavior or lifestyle.
- Is condescending towards you and acts as if he is superior.
- Uses session to talk about his/her personal issues and self.
- Talks too much or does not talk much at all.
- Tries to be your friend.
- Asks for your help on something outside of therapy.
- Doesn't actively listen to you - is preoccupied.
- Answers a phone call or knock at the door.
- Tries to promote his spirituality or religion.
- Runs behind time and your appointments begin later than scheduled.
- Disregards your religious or spiritual beliefs.
- Fosters your dependence and makes decisions for you.
- Seems tired and disinterested.
- Blames you, your partner, or family members and encourages you to do the same.