Exploring Excellence: A Qualitative Analysis of Interviews With Top-Performing Psychotherapists

Stephanie Chambers-Baltz, Douglas Knutson, School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University

The Counseling Psychologist

Published online on February 25, 2026

Abstract

The Counseling Psychologist, Volume 54, Issue 3, Page 432-464, April 2026.
Researchers suggest that psychotherapists are an essential element in positive mental health outcomes and that excellent psychotherapists produce more positive client outcomes. Mental health organizations, training programs, and psychotherapists may ...