Questions to Ask a Therapist
Now that you’ve used our tips to find a few therapists in St. Louis, you might be wondering what to do next. After narrowing it down and reaching out to a few, you may learn that most therapists offer brief consultations, typically over the phone. But what should you ask during that conversation?
Here are my top suggestions I would give to a friend who is wondering what to say during a therapy consultation.
Expectation Questions to Ask a Therapist
One of the most effective ways to set yourself up for therapy success is to have clear expectations about what you will be experiencing. Some questions to ask a prospective therapist might be:
- How often do you anticipate meeting with me?
- How long will therapy last? (weeks/months, etc.)
- Do your available hours line up with my availability? (i.e, if I require evening sessions, do you offer evening sessions)
- What is a typical session like? How long is each session?
- Is therapy in person or virtual?
Financial Questions to Ask a Therapist
It may initially feel uncomfortable to ask about cost, or credentials, but these are important things to know up front. A good therapist won’t want you stressing about cost or wondering what you’ll owe. Some questions to ask might include:
- Do you take my insurance?
- What is your cost per session?
- Am I charged for no-shows or cancellations?
Qualification Questions to Ask a Therapist
If you’re new to therapy , opening up to someone new might make you feel nervous or anxious. Knowing that this person has the qualifications and experience you are seeking can make you feel more comfortable and confident. A few questions you might want to ask include:
- How would you describe your approach to therapy? What type of therapy do you do?
- How much experience do you have treating people with circumstances similar to my own?
- How many years of experience do you have as a therapist?
- What licenses/certifications/degrees do you have?
I truly hope these tips help you find a great therapist in St. Louis. If you’re still struggling or feeling stuck in this process, we’d love to help. You can schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation online or send us a message. We’d be happy to hear from you and help you determine if one of our therapists is the right fit for you.
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