Curiosity and Therapy
I am often asked by students, clients, and even members of the public, “What is it that makes a successful therapist”. Whilst it cannot be argued that having the right training and qualifications are a part of it. Experience has a major impact as well. However, one of the most important elements of being a successful therapist is, in my opinion, a curiosity.
This is not simply about a curiosity about issues, but a curiosity about people. In many ways, a good psychotherapist could be considered a mind detective. It would be easy to take things as they appear without any investigation or question. Good and great therapists are always willing to ask the questions that might be difficult, but are necessary.
This is not to say that like in the police programmes on the television psychotherapists interrogate clients. Rather, what we do it skilfully ask questions based on observation. Whilst always keeping mindful of the core conditions of Empathy, Congruence, and Unconditional Positive Regard.
When I was first training, actually even now, I enjoy watching the masters of psychotherapy work. And it is my view that the one thing that they all shared was this curiosity that I have previously described. So, if you are a psychotherapist and you want to get better results, ask yourself if you are curious enough to make your practice what it should be.
