S7 | E4 HOW do I KNOW if I would be a good THERAPIST? And does the TRAINING turn you into one?

Subscriber’s question: ‘I'm struggling with this question right now. I've had a long career in technology, but am burned out from it and need to do something else. I also started getting counselling myself a few years ago and find it helpful and very interesting.

I'm also very much an introvert, and not really a people person at all, although I'm very sensitive and empathetic. How the heck do i know if i could be a good counsellor? Does a masters program sort of transform you into one?

Thanks!’

This podcast is a response to the above subscriber's question about how to know if one would be a good counsellor, given that they don't consider themselves a great "people person" and are more introverted.  It also addresses a comment from another viewer about the need for a "portfolio career" to earn enough as a therapist. 

I explore what I think are many of the common traits and qualities of a 'good therapist', such as:

- Curiosity and openness to new ideas      
- Self-reflection and tolerance      
- Empathy and sensitivity      
- Emotional intimacy and vulnerability      
- Active listening and communication skills      
- Optimism and hope      
- Good boundaries 
- Honesty      
- Warmth and kindness    

The podcast also mentions other qualities like creativity, connection to nature, and lack of competitiveness. Looking specifically at the subscriber's question, I suggest that their perception of themselves as not being a "people person" or being introverted may be shaped by their past experiences and environment.   The training and being around other therapists can help transform these beliefs and bring out the qualities that are valued in the profession, encouraging the subscriber to be curious and observant about how they feel in the training environment and to trust their own experience.