Counsellor and Client “Fit”

Counsellor and client “fit” is a significant predictor of success in counselling. Counselling research has identified three aspects of fit in the client-counselor therapeutic relationship:

• Client perception: Does he/she feel heard, understood and respected by the counsellor?
• Counselling goals: Do they match up between the client and counsellor?
• Therapy approach and method selection: Is it working for the client based on their goals?

So how do you know if the fit between you and the counsellor will have these three important ingredients?  Most counsellors offer the opportunity to meet for a 15-20 minute free consultation by phone prior to engaging in formal counselling sessions and starting a treatment plan. If you have the opportunity to participate in a consultation call, take some time to consider what you hope to achieve by going to counselling, if there are any specific styles or approaches that you think might work best for you and read the counsellor’s bio and jot down any questions you have about their experience or approach.

During and after your consultation call, reflect on the following questions:

• Do I feel a sense of ease or comfort when interacting with the counsellor?
• Does the counsellor have experience working with others in the areas of concern that I have identified?
• Do I feel ready, willing and able to be in counselling and participate in the counselling process? 
• Do I feel an absence of judgment from the counsellor?
• Do I feel comfortable talking, sharing and opening up? If not, can I foresee this happening eventually?

At Waypoint Counselling Network, we know finding the right therapist is the most important step in seeking help. We will help match you to the right counsellor in Victoria, Vancouver, Burnaby, Kelowna or online anywhere in BC.  All of our counsellors offer online counselling via phone or video and some offer in-person sessions. To get started, simply complete our matching questionnaire, book a matching and referral call with Clinical Director, George Bielay or proceed to book a free consultation with one of our clinicians here.  And if for whatever reason, the fit doesn’t feel right after the consult or even after you begin counselling, we will work with you to find the fit that works for you. Because in counselling, the fit matters!