When deciding on a therapist, there are many factors that go into finding the best fit, including specialty, personality, cost, and scheduling.
What Questions to Ask During a First Call
Many people are hesitant to call a therapist’s office and ask questions about the process or the therapist. Know that doing so is perfectly okay. Therapists expect people to be unsure about many things, and they welcome inquiries.
To make a call less intimidating and ensure you remember to gather the information you need, prepare a list ahead of time.
Here are some questions to ask on a phone consultation with a potential new therapist:
What are your fees?
Do you accept my insurance? (Have your insurance card handy)
What do your credentials mean for me?
Do you have experience working with people who have concerns like mine?
How do you approach helping people?
Do you make treatment plans? If so, will you share mine with me?
How do the sessions work with you? (How long is each appointment? What will we do?)
How long might I be working with you? (How many sessions do people have with you?)
If you have a positive conversation, feel that the therapist is open and easy to talk to, and the rates are affordable for you, it’s time to prepare for your first therapy session – it can be helpful to write out a list of the concerns you know you want to cover right away.
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