Characteristics of Good Psychologist

Psychologists are concerned with human behavior and the mental, emotional and social
implications that it brings. Through observations, surveys and tests, they seek to understand the
motivations behind a person’s actions and in so doing gain insight into a person’s behavior and,
in a wider sphere, help foster understanding between individuals and groups. Following are the
characteristics of good psychologists
 Passion for Learning
Commitment to lifelong learning characterizes a competent psychologist. Because new ideas and
therapeutic approaches continually emerge, psychologists must stay abreast of their profession
by attending seminars, reviewing evidenced-based research findings and consulting with
colleagues. A desire to help people can backfire if the psychologist is not adequately prepared to
work with a certain type of client or situation. Inappropriate advice or an inaccurate diagnosis
can profoundly harm a client. Psychologists must have the self-awareness to recognize areas
where they need more training.
 Empathy
Psychologists exude empathy and genuine concern. They notice nuances in voice tone and body
language. Skills such as active listening and reflection encourage clients to share repressed
thoughts, feelings and beliefs. Psychologists communicate understanding and acceptance of
powerful emotions being discharged. They manage their own reactions and feelings when
working with incarcerated clients, such as sex offenders, in an attempt to understand them and
bring about change.
 Problem-Solving Ability
Although tempting, psychologists resist the urge to give advice. Instead, they patiently wait for
the client to open up, identify problems and express reasons for dissatisfaction with life’s
circumstances. Motivation is evoked by pointing out discrepancies between the client’s goals and
misaligned behavior. Goals are discussed and a treatment plan developed outlining next steps in
therapy.
 Appropriate Boundaries
Psychologists adhere to boundaries and never cross the line of the professional, therapeutic
relationship. They maintain appropriate personal distance. Clients are given instructions for
seeking help after hours when the psychologist is not available. Romantic relationships with
clients are never considered due to the power differential, ethical codes and sexual exploitation
laws prohibiting such actions.
 Trustworthiness
Clients intuit whether a psychologist is trustworthy. Psychologists show they can be trusted by
emphasizing confidentiality. As part of the initial intake, clients are informed of their privacy
rights and notified of any possible exceptions to confidentiality, such as threats of imminent
harm to self or others. Psychologists reassure clients that are free to share thoughts and feelings
without judgement. Feedback to clients is constructive and supportive.
 Patience
Psychologists are realists who recognize that long standing, maladaptive behaviors cannot be
unlearned quickly. Instead of telling the client what to change and how to change it, they
patiently guide the client in the process of self-discovery. They accept that progress is nonlinear
and setbacks are common. Angry or resistant clients are not forced or manipulated into changing
before they are ready to do so.
 Solid Ethical Core
Ethical psychologists internalize the standards set by their state licensing board of psychology
and the ethical code of the American Psychological Association. They demonstrate openness,
honesty and transparency. Everything from counseling clients to writing case notes to insurance
billing is above reproach. Behaviors of ethical psychologists are congruent with their professed
attitudes and values.
 Cross-Cultural Sensitivity
Self-awareness and commitment to diversity exemplify an effective psychologist. A cookie
cutter approach to diagnosing and treating clients does not work in a pluralistic society. Socially
conscious psychologists understand social constructs, such as race, power, privilege and systemic
oppression. They recognize and confront their own personal biases while striving to be fair, just,
equitable and inclusive in their practice.
 Good Interpersonal Skills
Psychologists possess excellent interpersonal skills. They are comfortable talking with and
giving advice to people of diverse backgrounds and personality types. They also have that
uncanny ability to get people to share their innermost secrets. Not all people have this kind of
charm and powers of persuasion. They also use this skill to guide patients through the therapy
process, asking follow up questions that will help give clarity to what the client is going through.
 Stable Persons
Psychologists are mentally, emotionally and socially stable individuals. They are dealing with
those who already have issues in these areas so it’s important for psychologists not to carry their
own problems to work. Of course, psychologists aren’t perfect but they should be stable enough
to handle other people’s problems without breaking them down themselves.