How to Choose a Therapist, Part 3: The Consultation
Now that you've narrowed down your list of potential therapists through your research, it's time to reach out and schedule initial consultations. These consultations, often brief phone calls, are essentially interviews where you get to further assess each therapist's fit and ask any questions you have. Think of it as a mutual screening process.
To make the most of these conversations, it's helpful to go in prepared with a list of questions. These questions should be designed to clarify any doubts, confirm your impressions, and ultimately, help you gauge whether you feel a connection and sense of trust with the therapist. Remember, the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, empathy, and a shared understanding of your goals. You want to use this opportunity to see if you feel safe to open up to this person.
Here are some insightful questions to guide your conversations, broken down by category:
I. Experience and Approach:
"Could you tell me about your experience working with clients who have concerns similar to mine? (e.g., anxiety, trauma)" This helps you gauge their specific expertise.
"How would you describe your general approach or philosophy when working with clients?" This gives you a broader picture of their therapeutic style and how they connect with clients.
"How do you typically conduct a therapy session?" This helps you understand what to expect in a practical sense.
“Are you currently in therapy yourself? Why or why not?” This is crucial for understanding how they view themselves and the importance of ongoing personal work in this field. A therapist who is themselves engaged in therapy is generally more self-aware and committed to their own growth, which can positively impact their work with you. A therapist who is not in therapy may have their own reasons for this. What is important is that they are able to reflect on their reasons and be transparent with you.
"How do you feel about client feedback?" This speaks to being responsive and adaptable to your needs. A therapist who welcomes feedback is more likely to create a collaborative and empowering therapeutic environment.
III. Practical Considerations:
"What are your fees, and do you offer a sliding scale?" This is essential for understanding the financial commitment involved.
"What are your policies regarding insurance, cancellations, and scheduling?" Important to understand the logistics of working together.
"What is your availability for sessions (days, times)?" Ensures their schedule aligns with yours.
"Do you offer in-person, online, or hybrid therapy sessions?" Helps to know their flexibility for different formats of therapy.
IV. Your Gut Feeling:
"Do I feel comfortable and at ease talking to this therapist?" Trust your intuition! Feeling safe and understood is paramount.
"Do I sense that this therapist genuinely listens to me and understands my concerns?" Active listening and empathy are essential.
"Do I feel hopeful about the possibility of working with this therapist?" You should feel a sense of optimism about the potential for growth and healing.
Important Reminders:
Don't be afraid to ask follow-up questions for clarification or further information, even after the consultation is over. A good therapist will welcome your curiosity and be happy to elaborate.
Take notes during the interview so you can reflect on the conversation later. This will help you compare and contrast different therapists more effectively.
It's okay to interview multiple therapists before making a decision. In fact, it's encouraged! This is an important decision, and you deserve to find the best fit for your needs.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to move on. Your comfort and sense of safety are paramount.
By asking these insightful questions and paying attention to your gut feeling, you'll be well-equipped to find a therapist who is a good fit for you and your needs. The answers to these questions, combined with your intuitive sense of connection, will provide a solid foundation for making your final decision. Remember, this is a collaborative process, and finding the right therapist is a crucial step towards achieving your therapeutic goals. Good luck!