Current and former therapists place tremendous importance on having the same time/day each and every week.

I'm not sure what your history/background is, but a therapist who doesn't do this with a trauma client raises huge red flags. Wait-aren't you a therapist in training? Was this not covered in your training?

It makes a huge difference. Without it, there's a sort of chaos that I can't explain. I've always had consistent appointments, but have noticed that sense of chaos when my appt had to be cancelled or rearranged.

Also, when I'm having flashbacks or general distress that reaches severe levels, just scheduling the extra appointment with my therapist calms me down greatly; knowing I will see him in a day or two, that he's there for me.

I wouldn't settle for anything less than a consistent day and time every week, that's for sure.

Need to add: my need for this goes back to pre-verbal trauma, I think, where it felt like I'd die or the world would end if no one was there. I think for people using therapy for general support, not having a consistent day/time isn't a big deal.

Also adding: just read some of the replies. I'm an inconsistent person myself in many ways, so this need doesn't come from my need for organization or rituals, etc., but it also serves to contain me. I see you've had trauma too-you might be missing that containment effect, for one.