For me it was that my T has experience clinically. I think there is a different between learning something in school versus having applicable clinical experience. I didn't know mine had experience until after I started working with her, and we discussed it (she's my first T) and it's been a part of our work ever since.

So I'd say who understands it and who doesn't is those who have had experience but even then that doesn't necessarily mean they have done the "right thing". My T does a lot of couples therapy and I think that has really enhanced her understanding of attachment in adults. If I were in a position to look for another T I'd look for one with a theoretical orientation dealt more in using/analyzing transference or object relations. I think from a client perspective it is subjective as to whether a T "understands" or not because our preferences and transference get in the way The only thing I think is reliable is to ask situational based questions, experience, etc. There are tons of things I've received education on that I've never ever used in my business!