Questions You Can Ask During a Consultation

Some questions you can ask to make the most out of your consultation with a potential therapist

While its great that some therapists offer free consultations, its often hard to know what to ask or what to expect during this conversation. Especially if it’s a limited timeframe. Often, we dive right into sharing our struggles, and what brings us to therapy at this given time. But then, we hang up and realize we didn’t get a chance to really know the therapist. Conversations like these can leave still wondering if they’re the right fit for us.

Here are some questions to consider and things to listen for as you navigate finding the right therapist. At the start of the call, let the therapist know right away that you have a few questions you’d like to ask before the session ends. This sets the tone for a focused conversation and ensures you have time to get the information you need to make an informed decision.

Remember, therapy is a relationship, and it’s essential to find a good fit for both of you. You want to feel comfortable, heard, and confident in the therapist’s ability to support you.

1. Have you worked with clients who are going through something similar to what I’m experiencing?

   • It’s natural to want to know if the therapist has experience with your specific situation. Listen for whether they describe concrete examples, without breaching confidentiality, and if they can explain what approach they used. A good fit will feel like the therapist understands your needs and has a clear plan to help.
     

2. What would you say is your area of expertise and approach to therapy?

   • This helps you gauge whether their style aligns with what you’re looking for. Listen for clarity in their explanation—whether they describe a specific therapeutic approach (like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Emotionally Focused Therapy) and how it might be helpful for your goals. You want to feel confident that their approach fits your needs.
     

3. How do you tailor your sessions to meet the unique needs of each client?

   • Therapy is personal, and the best therapists recognize that. Pay attention to how they discuss flexibility in their approach. A therapist who listens to you and adapts their style will likely create a space where you feel heard and understood.
     

4. What is your availability like, and how do you handle scheduling or rescheduling sessions?

   • Life happens, and sometimes you need to adjust schedules. Pay attention to how easy or flexible their process seems and whether it fits with your lifestyle. You want someone who can accommodate your needs while maintaining consistency in the therapeutic process.
     

5. How do you measure progress in therapy, and how will we know when it's time to end?

   • Therapy isn’t just about feeling better; it’s about making progress. Listen for how they track progress—whether through regular check-ins, goal setting, or feedback. A therapist who can clearly explain how they evaluate progress will help you feel more in control of your journey.
     

Lastly, pay attention to how you feel during the conversation. Does the therapist make you feel heard and respected? Do they make you feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns? That sense of ease and trust is often a good sign that you’ve found the right person to walk with you through this process.

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