For those who have seen are seeing a therapist

I have posted a similar question about CBT earlier and how soon I should expect results from my therapy, but now I am wondering if I should find a new therapist.

A little history, I've been recently diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression. I started seeing a therapist a month and a half ago, seeing her almost every week. I decided to try and get better without meds and was doing fine the first 3 weeks, then suddenly after my period, I fell into a slump again and my depression was back. Ever since I was not really able to recover and recently my anxiety has gotten the best of me that I had to call in sick and the next day ask my boss for a 2 week leave. I am afraid of developing agoraphobia as I am now having fears of leaving my house alone. I started taking zoloft this week to help me too.

So far, after almost 6 weeks of therapy, most of the techniques and knowledge that I apply for my anxiety I got from a book my therapist told me about (CBT book). I honestly feel that I have not really learned a lot from her.I feel that I have not progressed a lot from the first time that I have seen her. I do not exactly know what to expect from my therapy sessions or what to expect from my therapist. I am a little discouraged right now especially since I have to pay $30 every visit and seeing not a lot of results. I know it might be too soon to see the results of my therapy. I know my therapist is not my friend but is there to help me as a professional.

My question is, what do you like about your therapist? How do you know that your therapist is the right one for you? Should I look for another therapist?

Sorry its a pretty long post. Hope you can help me.

Good Morning,

I have been to some therapists that I knew after the first 3 sessions that we were not a good match.  Here is what a person should seek out when choosing a therapist.

Therapy is a very effective treatment for mental and emotional problems. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist – someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and has the experience to help you make changes for the better.  A good therapist knows how to listen, helps you identify and understand self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, encourages you to make positive changes, and motivates you to learn and grow. But your therapist cannot do the work for you. You must be an active participant in the process.

I have learned to speak out even if I am feeling down.  I make it a practice to let my therapist know how I am feeling about our sessions.  I do not like to set goals and then come back the following week to be asked, " and did you accomplish your goals?" I also let my therapist know when I feel we have had a good session too. 

Therapists are professionally-trained listeners who can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional challenges, and make positive changes in your life.

Therapy can be time consuming and challenging, as uncomfortable emotions and thoughts often arise as part of the treatment process. However, therapy provides long-lasting benefits that go beyond symptom relief. Therapy gives you the tools for transforming your life—for relating better to others, building the life you want for yourself, and coping with whatever curveballs come your way.

If you feel this therapist is not the right one for you then give yourself permission to find a new one.

Kindly,

Kitt