I think there are so many misconceptions about what counseling/therapy actually is that clients and their therapists are often not on the same page. Success takes an open mind and flexibility in both people and often times that's just not the case.

From what I've read on this board it does appear like many T's believe they are authority figures and believe that they have all the answers and know what is right for other people. This has not been my personal experience with therapy, but then I wouldn't click with that kind of T so maybe that's why. I see therapy as a collaborative experience where the client and T frequently go over goals as well as the client's satisfaction in treatment. Clear communication is important and I do think T's should be more upfront about what their approach is and make sure that it may not be effective.