When to Rely on a Rookie

If you've ever sought out a therapist, chances are you contemplated saving a few bucks on someone whose degree is freshly inked. What to do? We asked the experts in Psychology Today's Therapy Directory what advice they had for potential clients.

• Gut Reaction

  "Assess the chemistry between the two of you. You should feel respected, cared for and gently embraced in genuineness and compassion." —Judy N. Lam, Ph.D., San Francisco, CA

• The Supervision Question

  "Ask about their experience with particular issues, and if they work with supervisors or consultation groups." —Sandra M. Kosse, LICSW, Minneapolis, MN

• Beware Blinkering

  "Often clinicians are trained with so much enthusiasm for one approach that others are ignored. It's helpful for them to be exposed to as many approaches as possible." —Douglas D. Neill, Ph.D., Kennett Square, PA

• Swallowing Pride

  "If you run into a therapist bent on proving his experience, he may not be able to see you through his own defenses." —Elyn Robinson, MA Art Therapy & Counseling, Boulder, CO

• Peer Review

  "Certainly a therapist who is closer in age to her younger clients can be especially helpful in creating an empathic relationship."—Eileen Peterson, MSW, LCSW, Downers Grove, Illinois

• Eager To Please

  "Even young therapists are well educated in theoretical knowledge. What they lack in clinical experience, they more than make up for in enthusiasm for finding answers for their clients." —Judy N. Lam, Ph.D., San Francisco, CA