What to ask in a Therapy Consultation Call

Have you ever thought about therapy but felt too anxious to make that first phone call? Do you find yourself at a loss to figure out what to ask, what to share, and how to tell if a therapist is a good fit for you? Here are some tips to help you find the right therapist for you from the first introductory phone call!

What to tell a potential therapist about you:
• Your goals for treatment (e.g. What do you want to be different in your life?)
• Have you been in therapy before and if so what was helpful or not helpful? (e.g. direct or indirect approach)
• Urgency for treatment – are you having thoughts of killing yourself or someone else, plans, access to means, intent to die. If you have had these thoughts in the past what has kept you from taking action and what would need to change to make you more likely to take action (this will help the therapist determine what level of care may be needed and the frequency of sessions).
• How do you plan on paying for sessions- in-network insurance, out of network insurance, self-pay, HSA?

What to ask a potential therapist:
• What is your approach to therapy?
• What is your schedule?
• Do you see people online or in person or both?

How to decide if it is a good fit for you:
• Did the therapist get back to you in a timely manner if you called to schedule an initial consultation?
• Did you feel heard and respected by the therapist?
• Did you feel like the therapist respected your expertise on your own story while offering guidance to support your growth?
• Did you feel comfortable talking with the therapist and see the potential for change in your life by talking to them?
• Do your schedules mesh well together?
• Are you willing and able to make the financial investment in your growth at this time?

Want to know more about my practice?
Watch Get to know Dr. Lauren Simpson, owner of Grounded Resilience

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