[hamster-bamster]

I have got two appointments at two different clinics with intern (supervised) therapists. One clinic is almost literally round the corner, and is my preference in terms of location convenience. The other is far away, but I still feel that I should go to both appointments to compare counsellors. I would appreciate ideas on how to interview them to get the most out of the sessions. Or should I just rely on my gut feelings?

[bluemountains]

Personally, I have gone with my gut feelings with my current t. I did have prior contact with her, though, because she is a clinical psych and had tested two of my kids, and her dx was confirmed by a pdoc, so I respect her knowledge and background. Also, she is about the same age as me. I had already ruled out men and young ones fresh out of college. Btw, the man thing is just my own preference. I dealt with csa as a child, and I think that this makes me only comfortable with women. The youngster thing is due to the fact that I already have a dentist and a pdoc who are much younger, and I feel kind of dumb when I make mistakes and have to be corrected by a kid!
Bluemountains

[hamster-bamster]

Originally Posted by bluemountains

Personally, I have gone with my gut feelings with my current t. I did have prior contact with her, though, because she is a clinical psych and had tested two of my kids, and her dx was confirmed by a pdoc, so I respect her knowledge and background. Also, she is about the same age as me. I had already ruled out men and young ones fresh out of college. Btw, the man thing is just my own preference. I dealt with csa as a child, and I think that this makes me only comfortable with women. The youngster thing is due to the fact that I already have a dentist and a pdoc who are much younger, and I feel kind of dumb when I make mistakes and have to be corrected by a kid!
Bluemountains

Yes, you told us that you even have disclosure problems with a younger p-doc.

[Eliza Jane]

I'd ask how long they plan to be at the clinic. Some interns can move through their positions very quickly and that may not be a good fit for what you need.

Best,
EJ

[fergus]

I only go to female therapists and if I don't feel my the end of the session that I can, over time, open up to them then there gone......oh another peeve of mine if they a distinct viewpoint on medication use then I won't see them again.

I've been seeing the same one for three years now....now my only fear is that she leaves the area.

[Blue Poppy]

..... never thought much about having a choice! Was just assigned a T and both times it worked out well. I like if I relate to them in terms of life interests, like fine cooking, running etc. A sense of humour works really well for me. Exactly how you would figure this out from the first session, I don't know. Most T's don't talk much about their lives initially, it kind comes out over time.

So, I guess go with your gut!