R.J.
If you have insurance for it... (crossing fingers)
My definition of a good therapist is "A great, and well educated friend/mentor that you just didn't happen to meet on the street."
I've had 2 that I absolutely loved and adored, and several that were just plain good. Over the years I've gotten good at "shopping" for psychologists (adhd and I move a lot). The 2 signs you've got a good one:
1) You leave their office feeling amazing. Things to think about, burdens lessoned, ideas to try, or just a friendly ear to vent to. Even after a "hard" session, you walk away with something to hold onto, a perspective or a kind of hope. And great sessions leave you feeling like you can take on the world no matter what comes your way.
2) They "never" ;) use the words always/ never/ should do/ this works for everyone etc. They work via questions to help you figure things out on your own, find your own truth and make SUGGESTIONS about things to try, and aren't "hung up" on those suggestions. Things like "Have you thought about "x"?" or "This is a process called _________. This is how it works_______. Would you be willing to give it a go?" And then EITHER a yes or no answer is perfectly acceptable in any case Whatever your answer... they can work with that and don't guilt/ blame/ get resentful/ or have "pet theories".