For me, a good connection starts with comfort in being able to share without judgment. My T knows how to be compassionate, which I can see in her eyes, and also knows when to challenge me and call me out on my crap. She obviously didn't start out being tough, but as we've worked together and built up a trusting relationship, she has gotten tougher on me. And while I get frustrated at times, I know she's only doing it because she cares. Sometimes it hurts to hear that she's worried or concerned about when I move (I'm moving away in several months), but I appreciate her honesty and her willingness to help me. She also goes above and beyond. While firm with her boundaries, she does respond to calls/texts in the evening or on weekends when needed. She has a separate work cell, so I know that, after her work day, she only checks it once in the evening and once a day Friday-Sunday. I could go on about my T, but it comes down to her being genuine, knowledgeable, and compassionate.

[edit] Oh, and she's funny too.