What kind of clients do therapists like?

Key points

• A older study once showed that therapists prefer clients who are married women, age 20-40 with post-high school education and a professional job.
• A more recent study shows therapists prefer clients who are motivated and open-minded above all other qualities.

What can therapists disclose?

Therapists are required by law to disclose information to protect a client or a specific individual identified by the client from “serious and foreseeable harm.” That can include specific threats, disclosure of child abuse where a child is still in danger, or concerns about elder abuse.

Is it normal to miss part of a therapy session?

You deserve to talk to someone whom you feel comfortable around. There are times when missing part or all of a session is nothing more than a scheduling snafu, but if it happens often, it might reflect an attempt to avoid therapy, the therapist or the feelings that are coming up in therapy, Fleck said.

Should I tell my therapist if I’m not ready to talk?

“With that being said, don’t hesitate to let your therapist know if you do not feel ready to talk about a certain topic.” Know that therapy is a place to feel heard ― not judged. A therapist should never make you feel judged or criticized for what you’re thinking, feeling or going through.

What happens if my therapist doesn’t know the essential highlights?

If your therapist doesn’t know the essential highlights, they may use interventions or exercises that may not be the best fit for your issue, since they don’t have the full story.

Do you have to tell your therapist all your story?

“Therapists don’t necessarily need to know all the details of your story, but it’s important for them to know the essential parts, such as the parts that bother you and may even cause shame, sadness or other painful emotions,” Zarrabi said.