Even the best therapists aren’t perfect, and it’s possible for effective, ethical therapists to make mistakes or inadvertently upset a client. But there are some therapists, unfortunately, who are not suited to the profession. Common warning signs of an ineffective therapist include talking too much—to the point where the client feels unable to talk about their own concerns—or sharing inappropriate details about their own personal life. Therapists who are judgmental or condescending to the client are also likely not good fits, as are therapists who frequently appear bored or distracted.
Unethical therapists are much rarer than unqualified or ineffective ones, but they certainly exist. An unethical clinician may make sexual or romantic overtures toward a client, threaten or blackmail them, or breach confidentiality agreements without just cause. Clients should report such therapists to their licensing board and end therapy as soon as possible.
For more on therapeutic boundaries, visit Boundaries and Red Flags in Therapy.