How does my therapist read my mind? He understands me like no one else does. He only has a few years experience in the field. Is this a skill therapists learn?
People rarely talk about talent with therapists. They talk about training and experience, which of course are indispensable, along with commitment.
But talent trumps everything.
I remember an inpatient chemical dependency counseling student, Todd. He was clean and sober for just a year, was working a good 12 Step program, and had taken a few courses. Todd was seeing clients for the first time, under supervision. The response on the unit was remarkable. Apparently Todd was stunningly good with accurate empathy, and many patients commented he was “like a mind reader.” Talent.
One time I took on an intern. Among other things he was my co-therapist for advanced group psychotherapy. Rick was an amazingly gifted actor in role-pay settings, and he could quickly create a therapeutic situation with a client that seemed utterly real, with all the emotion and insight and resolution. I learned so much from him that year, but I didn’t have that incredible basic talent.
Training and experience certainly count, but if you are fortunate enough to have a therapist with particular talents that suit you and your issues? A great gift.