This question has been really hard for me to answer. Sometimes there is an element to a person that can't be described in words, but when in the presence of that other person, a sense of connectedness is felt. I always hope and want to feel that way with my therapist.

But for more of a concrete answer, I need my therapist to be nonjudgmental, down to earth, reliable, and to respect my religious beliefs (or lack thereof). I need for my therapist to know how to use our time wisely.

I need my therapist to challenge me while at the same time show an understanding of how difficult it might be for me. I need my therapist to be open to innovation and not be stuck in old practices.

Hmm, that's all I can think of right now, I'm sure there is more - again, this was much harder than I expected.