Questions to Ask When Choosing a Therapist in Lee's Summit
Talking to a Therapist
Deciding to start therapy is a positive step, but it’s understandable if you feel a bit overwhelmed when it comes to finding the right therapist. Whether this is your first experience or you’ve had challenges before, selecting a therapist who truly fits your needs is an important and personal decision.
In my recent guide to finding the right therapist in Lee’s Summit, I encouraged you to schedule an initial consultation call with a therapist once you’ve narrowed it down to 2-3 options. Now, I want to help you take the next step by preparing for your first phone call with potential therapists. If you're hoping to gain clarity about what you're looking for or need some helpful questions to ask during the call, this post is here to support you.
Using Self-Reflection to Find a Therapist That's Right for You
Your journey to find a therapist starts from within. Even if you've been feeling uneasy for quite a while, taking a moment to pause and reflect before reaching out to a potential therapist can bring you closer to finding someone who truly fits your needs.
Working with a therapist is starting a new relationship. So, prepare by reflecting on what you need help with and what you're looking for in a therapist. Also, remember that you don’t need to have a long list of questions ready. Most therapists will ask you questions to get to know you, and if you have any additional questions, you'll be set.
Before You Call: Understanding What You Want from Counseling
You've scheduled your first call with a potential therapist, and it's natural to wonder what to share. Taking a moment to understand what you hope to gain from therapy helps you find the right fit. Here are some self-reflection questions to consider before your initial call to a therapist:
What challenges or problems are you currently facing?
What are your goals for counseling, or how would you like to feel (or become) after finishing therapy?
What is your monthly budget for therapy?
What are your preferences regarding your therapist’s gender, age, race, and/or religious background?
What days and times work best for you to attend therapy sessions?
Do you have a preference for doing therapy in-person or online?
Do you have any disabilities that you want your therapist to know about to accommodate you better?
Is there anything you want your therapist to NOT do?
Is there anything you want your therapist to definitely do?
Remember, you don’t need to answer all of these questions. You will often find helpful details on the therapist’s website or in a directory. It’s also beneficial to write down your current challenges, therapy goals, and preferences. Bringing these notes to your first call with a potential therapist can make the conversation more productive and tailored to your needs.
The First Conversation: What to Ask Your Potential Lee's Summit Therapist
As a reminder, you don’t need to ask any questions to determine if they're a good fit. However, for some of you, asking questions is crucial in the decision-making process. So, here are some common questions that can help you assess whether the therapist you're having an initial call with is the right fit:
How long have you been a licensed therapist (counselor or psychologist)?
How long have you been providing therapy (or counseling)?
Have you ever worked with anyone with my particular issues before? (If yes, how often?)
I have (disability/identity/religious trauma/etc), will I feel safe working with you? (Pro-Tip: For those of you who either desire a therapist with similar values or someone who is affirming of different backgrounds.)
How often will we meet? (or How long are sessions?)
What are your fees? (or Do you take my insurance?)
What is your availability like for new clients? (or What days and times do you have open for ongoing appointments?)
My biggest tip is to let the therapist guide the consultation, so you can get a feel for what it is like to talk to them. Some therapists are more directive and structured, while others prefer a more open-ended and collaborative approach. By simply showing up and engaging with them, you'll start to get a sense of what working with them might be like.
If the potential therapist doesn’t naturally answer your most important questions or address your concerns, don’t hesitate to ask them before the call ends. Remember to let what you’re looking for guide your questions. It’s all about making sure you find the right fit for you.
After the Call: How to Know Which Therapist Is The Best Fit
During the phone consultation, some of you will already know that the therapist you're talking to is a good match. Others may need to reflect on it after the call.
Aside from making sure the therapist in Lee’s Summit (or nearby) aligns with your preferences, there are two key questions to answer before scheduling:
Did you feel comfortable talking to the therapist?
Do you feel like they can help you?
That’s it! You're all set and ready to go. If you've jotted down some preferences and what you'd like to learn about the therapist and their approach, then you're all prepared. I genuinely hope this article has boosted your confidence in reaching out to a therapist and helped clarify what you're looking for.
My wish for you is to find a therapist who truly matches your needs. If you're looking for a therapist in Lee’s Summit, MO, a variety of different support is available. Whether you're healing from an emotionally abusive relationship, managing anxiety related to people-pleasing, or working to let go of the past's hold on your present, therapy can make a positive difference.
Author: Marci Payne, MA, LPC, LCPC
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Kansas, with a private practice located in Lee’s Summit, MO. Her expertise includes individual therapy for people-pleasers, empaths, and adults recovering from emotionally abusive relationships. Marci provides both online and in-person sessions and is recognized as a non-traditional, holistic, and inclusive therapist. (Schedule a free initial phone call with her here.)