How To Choose a Therapist:

This is the most important issue when you consider therapy.   It has been demonstrated that therapy success is directly related to fit or match between therapist and client.   You could go to the best-qualified therapist with the most outstanding reputation but if you are not comfortable with them, if you don't feel understood by them, then chances are you will not benefit from the therapeutic work.

You may want to set up initial consultations with several therapists so that you can compare how you feel with each one.   You want to feel basically comfortable with them.   You want to feel that they understand you and can empathize with what is troubling you. You also need to assess their competence to help you.   You should feel free to ask about their training and level of expertise.   You should ask about what specific experience they have had in helping people in your situation with your type of problem.   You can ask how many patients have they treated for this issue and how successful have they been, how long have they been in practice, and what are their specialties if any.   You are selecting a professional to help you so do not be shy or intimidated in asking direct questions to assist you in making your decision.   Incidentally, if the therapist becomes defensive when you ask questions or makes you feel intimidated, then that is a sign that this is not the right person for you.  

Remember that therapy frequently involves facing difficult issues or getting in touch with painful emotions so be aware that the course of therapy may not always be pleasant or enjoyable.   Therapy can be difficult but can offer profound and often life changing rewards.   However you and your therapist do form a team for the purpose of your growth and healing and you should expect to feel that you both are on the same team and have the same goals.