Debbie,

You are right - there is more to it than trust, although trust is very important. I trusted my previous T, and enjoyed talking to him, but he didn't push me to get better, so I didn't really, although I improved in some things. I got to the point where I could carry on a normal conversation with him. That was something, but we stopped dealing with my issues. I needed someone who was more directive, who could push me to actually make some changes, rather than be content with tweaking a few cognitive distortions here and there. You might try asking for referrals to a therapist who can be directive. Would the one you saw in the hospital be able to work with you as an outpatient?

Don't give up your search. It sometimes takes several tries to find the right T, but they are out there somewhere.