“Research has more recently focused on what factors contribute to psychotherapy success. The emerging answer is that, like all complex human endeavors, many factors account for success (and failure): the patient, the treatment method, the psychotherapist, the context, and the relationship between the therapist and the patient. The optimal combination of these factors—a good match, a suitable fit—also promotes effective treatment.”
There are many therapists to choose from in the twin cities area, how do you find the right one? First of all; ask your friends, co-workers and family members, they might know of someone who would work well with you. If that is not an option or you know what you are looking for in a therapist do some research; Psychology Today has listings of local therapists and at times a Google search will generally start you in the right direction.
You will not (and should not) be a good fit for all therapists. When I first began my work this fact was hard for me to understand. A client might ask: Why is this not working? What is going wrong? What am I doing wrong? Answer: nothing. I am not a good fit for every person. I have learned to notice this and talk about it with my clients. One of the things I try to remember to say in my initial meeting with clients is “if you feel like this is not a good fit, please tell me and if you feel uncomfortable telling me in person; call and leave me a voicemail”. I am a therapist and I know many other therapists who might be a good fit for you; I want you to succeed in finding a good fit.