Oh my, those are a lot of questions. I am seeing a man right now - have seen a woman in the past. Have chosen based on recommendations although there was a time when only would see a woman. My therapists have always been psychodynamically oriented, which means they help me explore the issues underlying my immediate issues and problems. Not a 1, 2, 3 process. Right now I kind of wish I was seeing a CBT therapist, but so invested with the current counselor. I see my therapist weekly and believe that is important to help get deeper in the therapy. He is older, but I am not sure that is necessary. I choose therapists based on recommendations from people I trust. I am more interested in their ability to form a relationship with me and help me dig deeper, than exactly what their education level is, although certainly a masters and licensed or certified. I think psychologists can be really good, just as I do social workers, marriage and family therapists, license professional counselors, and pastoral counselors. I think you know within the first several visits what kind of relationship they will form with you. Research shows the single most important variable in counseling is the relationship. Hope this is helpful!
