Finding a good match.
According to studies, the effectiveness of psychotherapy depends more on the quality of interpersonal rapport between a therapist and client than a therapist’s techniques, education or approach. It is believed that the relationship between a therapist and client is the most significant predictor of therapeutic success. Since it may take a couple of sessions before you begin to feel comfortable, we encourage you meet with a prospective therapist a few times before deciding whether they are a “right fit” for you.
Before the conclusion of your first session, your therapist will ask you if you wish to return for another session. They may also ask about your experience of your first session together. It is important to share your feelings as openly as possible. If you do not feel a particular therapist is a “good match” for you they will help you in finding another therapist, or refer you to our Intake Coordinator, who will assist in finding someone more compatible with your needs or wishes.
We recommend the book The Gift of Therapy by Irvin D. Yalom, M.D. as a resource to enrich your experience of therapy, to support your knowledge in co-creating the therapeutic relationship and to deepen your understanding of the process. The book reads as 85 short chapters that can be easily referenced at any time. This can be a great starting point whether you are new to psychotherapy or a long-time participant.
We have included biographies of each of our therapists on our “Meet our Therapists” page which you can access by clicking on the button below. Each therapist is listed on our directory. By clicking the “Learn More” button beneath the name of each therapist, your will be directed to a more lengthy description of their services, approach, philosophy, address, phone number, website, fees and supervisor. You will also learn what languages they speak and where they offered services. As a reminder, we have offices in Marin, San Francisco, Berkeley, Oakland, Albany, Alameda, Emeryville, Concord and Walnut Creek.
Of course, if you wish to call our Intake Coordinator, he can also assist in referring you to one or more of our therapists based on your preferences and needs. If you wish to pursue this option, please clink the “Contact Us” button below.