One question that our client coordinators often receive is ‘who is the best therapist in your practice?’. Or it may come in the form of ‘please book me an appointment with the best therapist at your center’. We thought we would answer this question in today’s post because it really needs to be talked about more. The truth is, this question is not only misleading but inherently unanswerable. Here’s why.
First off, the therapy experience is highly personal and subjective. What works wonders for one person may fall short for another. Every client is unique in their circumstances, challenges, and preferences. Hence, there can never be a one-size-fits-all answer to the quest for the “best” therapist.
In the medical field, specific protocols and procedures lead to clear-cut outcomes while technical skills and expertise are undoubtedly important in ensuring desired patient outcomes. However, mental health treatment depends on more than these qualities. Therapy involves navigating the complexities of human emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
Next, let’s take a closer look at this word ‘best’ in the context of seeing a therapist. The notion of a “best” therapist implies that there is a standardized measure of excellence, which simply doesn’t exist in the realm of mental health. This can be a difficult concept to grasp for a society and culture that places a lot of emphasis on achievements and is built on a narrow view of success and excellence.
Therapists vary in their specialties, approaches, and personalities. At ABRI, all our therapists are adequately qualified and trauma-informed. Attempting to pinpoint a singular best therapist overlooks the diverse needs of individuals seeking support. This is why when people ask us who the best therapist is, we will redirect them to looking through the therapist profiles and asking them which profile they resonated with.
Instead of fixating on an elusive notion of the “best” therapist, perhaps it would be more fruitful to ask nuanced questions that align with personal needs and preferences. For instance, you may ask about a therapist’s approach to treatment, their experience with specific issues, or their compatibility with your communication style.
Ultimately, what matters most in therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Research consistently demonstrates that the bond formed between therapist and client is the most significant predictor of therapy outcomes. It even goes beyond therapist accolades or years of experience, emphasizing the importance of trust, empathy, and mutual respect in the therapeutic journey.
So, rather than chasing the myth of the “best” therapist, let’s move towards the idea of personalized therapy tailored to your unique needs. A meaningful therapy journey begins with finding a therapist with whom you feel seen, heard, and understood.
Written by Weii Yie
Weii Yie is an associate therapist at ABRI where she primarily provides therapy to adults and adolescents. Her love for writing and passion for mental health are translated into these blog posts. Read more about who she is as a therapist on the Team page.