Starting the journey of finding a counsellor is a meaningful and courageous step toward personal well-being. I understand that navigating through consults with different therapists can be a bit overwhelming, but it's all about finding that special connection—someone who not only supports your goals but also creates a safe space for you to open up. I've compiled some questions to ask in a consult that can help you get a sense of whether a therapist might be the right fit for you.
Therapist's Approach and Competency
What modalities do you use?
Have you supported clients before with similar concerns?
How would you describe your personal therapy style?
How do you tailor your approach to meet the individual needs of clients?
Can you provide an overview of what the treatment process might look like for my specific concerns?
Have you worked with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds?
How do you educate clients about mental health and the therapeutic process?
How do you track or measure progress in therapy?
What indicators suggest that therapy is working or needs adjustment?
How do you approach cultural competence in therapy?
How do you typically structure your sessions to address specific concerns?
Logistics
How often do you recommend we have sessions, and what is the typical duration of each session?
How far in advance do you typically schedule appointments?
Are there specific days and times that you have available for sessions?
What is your policy regarding cancellations and rescheduling appointments?
Are there any fees associated with missed sessions or late cancellations?
Do you accept insurance, and if so, how does the billing process work?
What payment methods do you accept (credit cards, checks, electronic transfers)?
Is payment due at the time of the session, or do you send invoices?
What is your policy on communication between sessions? (e.g., emails, phone calls)
This is not an extensive list of questions but my hope is that this can provide some guidance in creating your own questions and being more prepared when entering a consult call.