Finding a Therapist

1. Does the therapist seek regular case consultations or supervision with someone experienced with complex trauma, dissociative disorders and PTSD (i.e. has had at least several such clients and over 10 years’ experience with successful outcomes, or as outlined in point 4 below)?
2. Is the therapist and their case consultant or supervisor versed in the principles and strategies outlined in the recommended reading list (Resource section)?
3. Has the therapist attended regular training in this field with experienced clinicians in the trauma field?
4. Is there an existing good relationship with a therapist who is not experienced in therapy for trauma but is willing to seek ongoing guidance through case consultation as well as attend training to develop core skills and principles of trauma-informed therapy?
5. Does the therapist provide clarity about expectation of boundaries and are these clearly communicated? This is preferable in written format to avoid confusion regarding session times, payment, cancellations, safe / any touch versus intrusive or uncomfortable, notice re. holidays, agreements re. contact outside of sessions should that be likely etc. A trauma informed therapist will consistently actively respect these boundaries. The rights and responsibilities of both a client and therapist deserve respect and acknowledgment.
6. Does the therapist appreciate that symptoms and behaviours are functional and are not ‘the problem’ per se, even though they may be problematic and require attention?
7. Does the therapist have skills to facilitate strategies to assist with the symptoms and process difficult emotions at a safe pace, in collaboration with what the individual is ready and willing to work with? 

A reliable, experienced and compassionate therapist can provide support to navigate troubled waters. Guidance at a safe pace can assist in rebuilding what has been shaken and to transform fragmentation into a cohesive and creative expression.