Personal Characteristics of a Psychotherapist

Photo by Cathal Mac an Bheatha on Unsplash


A few days back I wrote a poem about characteristics required to be a good therapist and to practice therapy authentically. So, I thought of sharing it here. Would love to hear your feedback on it!

As I sit silently

With the exit of last client of the day finally.

It has been 45 years

And still with each client I discover new spheres.

Being a wounded healer

Personal therapy keeps checking on my countertransference.

I encourage clients to examine their own feelings, thoughts and actions

Rather than attempting to impose my values during the interaction.


In strive to be an efficient therapist

I have evolved to be an ablest.

And while maintaining qualities of a therapist

Acknowledging my real self is a must.


After interacting with so many clients

Over time there are many things I have learnt.

More than focusing on technique

Achieving therapeutic alliance is what I seek.


I have developed a strong identity

Which allows me to being open to change and diversity.

And attaining interpersonal expertise

Helps me in maintaining healthy boundaries.


Appreciating and respecting my self

Enables authenticity, sincerity and honesty itself.

My decisions allow me to live my life with cheer

And along comes some good sense of humor with some tears.


Doesn’t mean I am perfect, I also make errors from the misconception

But I don’t dismiss them rather learn and move on.

Not in the past or future but living in the present

Inspires me to think of other’s contentment.


Being mindful of mine and other’s culture and differences

Allows me to get involved deeply to derive meaning of their experiences.

I am passionate and courageous

To support those who feel helpless.


I know, these are too many good qualities to be a human

But rather than being black-or-white I sway on the continuum.

These are few qualities that I try to bear

While sitting in a therapist’s chair.