Things to Consider When Interviewing Your Therapist
Courageous. That’s one of the best words that I can think of when describing someone who has the decision to seek therapy. Taking that first step is such a big deal and is something that automatically pushes one towards progress and change. But there’s one more step that is often overlooked and if not considered, could affect your progress: interviewing your therapist. Yes, I said it, interview your therapist! I have heard so many stories about people who were in therapy and abruptly stopped because of feeling like they weren’t connecting with or being understood by their therapist, ultimately assuming that therapy was just not for them.
It’s so important to keep in mind that therapists are humans too and although we are all trained with the same ethical guidelines, our styles, lenses, and personalities are all so very different. Not every therapist will be the right fit for you and it is absolutely okay to find a new one if not. But here’s to hoping that this article will help give you a better idea of how to navigate and find the right fit before too much valuable time has passed.
When looking for a therapist, here are some things to take into consideration:
Set your intentions and identify what you are looking to get out of therapy. When meeting with my clients for their first session, I like to check in and identify these things with them. Are you looking to be challenged? Just needing to express yourself or vent? Accountability? Would you prefer to have assignments to do within the week? Already having a general idea really helps.
Ask about your therapist’s educational background and counseling experience. This will give you get a better idea of how their scope of work compliments your needs as well as what you may be looking for in a therapist. Take into consideration that educational background and counseling experience are equally as important along with their ability to empathize.
Ask your therapist about their theoretical orientation. This is really important. Therapists typically have a style of therapy that they best connect with and use in their sessions. Some of those styles include focusing primarily on your childhood & past, focusing the present, how your thoughts affect your behaviors, or mainly highlighting your maximum potential and capabilities (just to name a few) . There are a variety of different styles and depending on your need, their style may or may not fit what you need. There are also some therapist who choose to take an eclectic approach and combine a variety of different styles to best tailor your needs. All of these methods are great and are what make us therapist so unique at what we do.
Pay attention to how you feel after your first session. Was your experience comfortable? Positive? Are you looking forwards to going back? Do you feel optimistic? Can you see yourself becoming transparent with your therapist?
If paying out-of-pocket, ask if your therapist offers a sliding scale (if needed). While some therapist take insurance, some are transitioning out of this method of payment for a variety of reasons. For some people, private pay can become costly. Many therapists offer a sliding scale (a reduced rate) that can help alleviate the costs. If insurance is your preferred option, ask your therapist if they can provide you with a superbill (an itemized receipt) for possible reimbursement or for a referral to another therapist who takes your insurance.
Bonus tip: Be open minded and please give us grace. The purpose of therapy is to help you grow and/or heal. There may be moments where the therapeutic process will become uncomfortable. There may also be times where you will feel challenged. All of these things are healthy and a part of your progress. If you ever experience a moment (or two) like this but feel like you have a good connection with your therapist, stick it out, they’re trying to help you. :)
We hope that this helps. Therapy is an incredibly rewarding experience. Now that you’re aware of some things to consider, take advantage of it and allow yourself to receive the full benefits of it. Be well, we’re rooting for you!
-The Consulting Firm