Considering a consultation for therapy? Maximize this opportunity to find a therapist who can fit your needs. Mental health therapists often provide a free, 15-20 minute consultation as an opportunity to determine fit. Preparing for this interaction is crucial for supporting your choice.
When you've decided to inquire about therapy, it's likely to already feel a lot of emotions such as nervousness or overwhelm. Clarifying your desires for therapy and listing strategic questions in advance can help you use the consultation time wisely and make an informed decision.
Here are some ideas to consider:
What or why did you decide to request a consult with this specific therapist?
Whatever it was is important because, it convinced you to consider this person for support. Share this with the therapist and ask them to talk more about those details that caught your attention and led you to consider opening up to them about your needs.
What do you want to gain from therapy?
Maybe it's behavioral changes or you want to understand the underlying influences of those behaviors. Some therapists address both, while others' approaches may focus on one or the other.
How do you work best?
Yes, therapy is work. So, consider which approaches help you thrive and which ones feel limiting? Maybe you want structure and accountability or something more fluid and non-directive...maybe both. A therapist can advise you of their style to ensure that both of your styles complement each other.
What concerns, symptoms or patterns do you notice that get in the way of your well-being and the life that you desire?
Feel free to ask about the therapist's skills and experience with supporting your specific concerns. Therapy is for you, about you and what you believe will help you benefit from it.
Consider and ask about logistics.
Do they have availability that realistically works with your schedule? Can you consistently afford their fee if they do not accept insurance? If you plan to attend virtually, will you consistently have privacy and reliable Wi-Fi for video conferencing? Are you more comfortable meeting in-person and do they offer the options for both?
Most importantly, how do you feel as you interact with the therapist?
Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they give you a sense of safety and genuineness? Did they answer your questions clearly and thoughtfully?
I know that this doesn't cover every possible question or consideration - especially within only 15-20 minutes. And while advance preparation may still result in a therapy mismatch, my intention is to offer ideas that can help you get beyond the surface-level questions and polite conversations common to meeting new people.
Having a therapist is a unique relationship that can involve significant vulnerability and emotional intimacy. The consultation is your opportunity to cut to the chase for you two to decide what will potentially work best for you.
I wish you well in your journey💜.
Learn more about working with me: click here to schedule a free 20-minute consultation.
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