Questions to Ask a Therapist in an Interview
Important questions to ask a potential therapist during an initial consultation to ensure you find the right mental health professional for your needs.
1What is your therapeutic approach and how do you typically work with clients?
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What is your therapeutic approach and how do you typically work with clients?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their treatment style and whether it aligns with your preferences and needs.
2What is your experience working with issues similar to mine?
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What is your experience working with issues similar to mine?
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Why this works
Ensures they have relevant experience and expertise in addressing your specific concerns.
3What is your availability and what are your session scheduling options?
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What is your availability and what are your session scheduling options?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their availability and whether their schedule works with yours.
4What are your fees and do you accept insurance or offer sliding scale options?
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What are your fees and do you accept insurance or offer sliding scale options?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand the financial commitment and whether their services are affordable for you.
5What is your policy on confidentiality and what information do you share?
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What is your policy on confidentiality and what information do you share?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the boundaries of confidentiality and what information they might need to share.
6How do you handle crisis situations and what is your emergency contact policy?
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How do you handle crisis situations and what is your emergency contact policy?
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Why this works
Ensures you know how to reach them in urgent situations and what support is available.
7What is your approach to setting goals and measuring progress?
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What is your approach to setting goals and measuring progress?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how they track your progress and what you can expect from therapy.
8How do you handle disagreements or conflicts in the therapeutic relationship?
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How do you handle disagreements or conflicts in the therapeutic relationship?
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Why this works
Shows their approach to addressing issues that may arise in your working relationship.
9What is your policy on medication and how do you work with psychiatrists?
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What is your policy on medication and how do you work with psychiatrists?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their approach to medication and whether they can coordinate with other providers.
10What is your experience with different age groups and populations?
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What is your experience with different age groups and populations?
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Why this works
Ensures they have experience working with people in your age group and background.
11How do you handle cultural differences and diverse backgrounds?
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How do you handle cultural differences and diverse backgrounds?
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Why this works
Shows their cultural competence and ability to work with people from different backgrounds.
12What is your approach to homework and between-session work?
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What is your approach to homework and between-session work?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what they expect from you outside of therapy sessions.
13How do you handle termination and what is your process for ending therapy?
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How do you handle termination and what is your process for ending therapy?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how therapy will end and what the transition process looks like.
14What is your policy on contact between sessions?
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What is your policy on contact between sessions?
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Why this works
Clarifies boundaries around communication and what support is available outside of sessions.
15How do you handle missed sessions and what is your cancellation policy?
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How do you handle missed sessions and what is your cancellation policy?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their policies and what happens if you need to miss a session.
16What is your approach to working with family members or significant others?
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What is your approach to working with family members or significant others?
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Why this works
Shows their approach to involving others in your treatment and what that process looks like.
17How do you stay current with new research and treatment approaches?
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How do you stay current with new research and treatment approaches?
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Why this works
Demonstrates their commitment to continuing education and staying updated with best practices.
18What is your experience with different types of therapy (individual, group, couples)?
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What is your experience with different types of therapy (individual, group, couples)?
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Why this works
Helps you understand their range of experience and whether they offer different treatment options.
19How do you handle your own self-care and professional boundaries?
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How do you handle your own self-care and professional boundaries?
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Why this works
Shows their approach to maintaining their own well-being and professional boundaries.
20What questions do you have about my situation and how I can best work with you?
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What questions do you have about my situation and how I can best work with you?
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Why this works
Allows them to ask clarifying questions and understand your specific needs and circumstances.
Finding the Right Therapist
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Preparing for Your Consultation
Clarify Your Goals
Think about what you want to achieve in therapy and what issues you want to address.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down your questions beforehand to ensure you cover all important topics.
Be Honest
Provide complete and honest information about your situation to get the best guidance.
Evaluating Your Options
Trust Your Instincts
Pay attention to how you feel during the consultation and whether you feel comfortable with them.
Consider Multiple Options
Meet with several therapists to compare their approaches and find the best fit.
Ask for References
Request references from previous clients to understand their experience and satisfaction.
Making Your Decision
Weigh the Factors
Consider their experience, approach, availability, and your comfort level with them.
Start with a Trial Period
Begin with a few sessions to see how you work together before making a long-term commitment.
Be Open to Change
Remember that you can always change therapists if the relationship isn't working for you.