I see a huge difference between the average slings and arrows of growing up vs trauma. If someone claims to have never experienced anything that hurt, I would assume they are either lying, in complete denial, or worse, completely non self-reflective.


But trauma leaves a shadow. If the trauma is dissimilar to mine, and the T is otherwise well-trained enough to recognize their own trauma and be non-reactive about it, then it may be ok. I would not see a T who is actively suffering from or in treatment for depression, anxiety, or addiction.

But to seek out a T who shares the issues I want to resolve? Hell no. The potential for disaster is statistically so inflated in relation to what I believe is an illusion of greater understanding that there would be no benefit to me.


And the only times I experienced Ts who were running groups on their shared issues, they devolved into chaos.

Along with training and questions of expertise, and research on practice history, I specifically ask about personal mental health. Any squishiness of answer and I leave.