When selecting or beginning sessions with a new psychotherapist, it’s important to gather information to determine if they’re a good fit for your needs. Here are some Questions to ask your new therapist to consider:
Questions to Ask Your New Therapist
Credentials and Experience
- What are your qualifications and certifications?
- How long have you been practicing?
- Do you have any areas of specialization?
- What types of therapy or therapeutic techniques do you use most often?
- Can you describe your experience with patients who have similar concerns as mine?
Logistics Questions
- How often are sessions typically scheduled?
- How long is each session?
- What are your fees and do you offer a sliding scale?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- Are remote or online sessions an option?
Approach and Techniques
- How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
- Can you provide examples of exercises or techniques you might use with patients?
- How do you incorporate evidence-based practices into your therapy?
- Do you assign homework or tasks between sessions?
Collaboration and Feedback
- How do you collaborate with patients in setting goals for therapy?
- How do you handle feedback or concerns from patients about the therapy process?
- How do you approach a situation if a patient doesn’t feel they are making progress?
Confidentiality and Boundaries
- Can you explain your confidentiality policy?
- Are there any circumstances under which you might share information with others?
- How do you handle communication outside of sessions? For example, emails or phone calls?
Culture and Identity Questions
- What is your experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds, including race, religion, gender, sexuality, etc.?
- How do you approach therapy with respect to a client’s cultural or personal values?
Other Professional Relationships
- Do you consult with or supervise other therapists?
- How do you coordinate care with other health professionals a client might be seeing?
Professional Development
- How do you stay updated with the latest research and developments in the field of psychotherapy?
- Are you involved in any professional associations?
Endings
- How do you typically conclude therapy when it’s time to end?
- How do you approach a situation where either you or the patient feels that the therapeutic relationship isn’t a good fit?
- Remember, the purpose of these questions is not just to gather information but to also gauge how comfortable you feel with the therapist and their responses. Feeling understood and supported is a key component of the therapeutic process.
Contact me to find out more.