After you’ve been in therapy for a while, it is important to evaluate the experience. The reality is that some therapists work better with some individuals. It is just as important to have a good personality match with your therapist, as it is to have one with expertise in a certain subject. Consumers and the Colorado Mental Health Association suggest you ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I feel the mental health professional is genuinely concerned about me?
  
  
• Does my mental health professional work with me when I set goals and help me decide whether the goals are workable and realistic?
  
  
• Does he keep his appointments?
  
  
• Does he concentrate on my problems or does he spend time talking about his own feelings and problems?
  
  
• Do I feel comfortable raising any issues with him?
  
  
• Is he available when I am in a crisis?
  
  
• Am I using the mental health professional appropriately and getting the most out of therapy?
  
  
• Does she listen to me if I disagree with her? Do I feel good about these interactions?
  
  
• Is she helping me to solve problems for myself?
  
  
• Does she encourage me to try new things or does she discourage me because I may have a relapse?

If you answered more "no’s than "yes’s" it may be time for you to find another therapist.

The best treatment experience happens when you and the professional work together. If you feel like the professional is ignoring your needs or your opinions, find another professional. It may take one or two tries before you find a good match.