Facial attractiveness increases the likelihood of choosing a psychotherapist, irrespective of sexual preferences and perceived trustworthiness.

Abstract

Objectives: Existing research suggests that a psychotherapist's physical attractiveness can shape patients' initial evaluation. However, less is known about how facial attractiveness affects the decision to select one psychotherapist over another prior to therapy. In this study, conducted with a Spanish-speaking sample (N = 108, 63 females, M_age = 32.08 years, SD = 17.50), we examined whether facial attractiveness influenced the likelihood of choosing a psychotherapist and whether this effect was moderated by sexual differences.

Methods: The experimental design closely replicated an online professional therapist directory to enhance ecological validity. Participants were instructed to rate the likelihood of selecting each individual as their therapist.

Results: Results demonstrated that psychotherapists with attractive facial features were chosen more frequently, even when perceived trustworthiness and competence were controlled for. No significant differences were observed between profiles featuring unattractive faces and those with no profile picture. Crucially, neither the therapist's nor the patient's gender and sexual preferences (i.e., sexual attraction) moderated the observed effect.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the preference for attractiveness in therapist selection is not driven by mating intentions nor by a "halo effect" related to trustworthiness or competence. Practical implications for therapist selection and patient decision-making are discussed.