Good therapist...

“A good therapist is a good technician, an artist, a loving human being, and an individual who
values self-examination about her own motives and behaviour. When I first thought of these
attributes, I put "loving human being" as the first one, in that a loving therapist can concern
herself with others and be of help just by radiating a special kind of warmth which attracts even
mistrustful people. But there's the catch! And this is why I list technique and art ahead of
lovingness when I discuss a therapist rather than a person. To be a loving human being is a
prerequisite for a therapist. However, without solid technique and a certain artistic flair, a
therapist can be engulfed by the problems of her patients, and she can end up crucified or
devoured by their cannibalistic needs when they seek ways to fill a certain emptiness within
themselves.” Fanita English: “What is a Good Therapist” TAJ: April 1997