If you’ve been in therapy before, you know that it can be a life-changing process. If you haven’t, you may not be sure what to look for in a counselor or therapist. Either way, you may not know what questions to ask a prospective therapist.
Often before people begin therapy, they’ve tried just about everything else to make changes in their lives. But nothing has worked – at least not for very long. As the emotional discomfort turns to anguish, it’s not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Why not try therapy? I have to do something to stop the pain.”
Unfortunately, when we’re hurting a lot, we typically don’t think clearly, and many people turn to counseling and therapy (whether for individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, or family therapy) without asking any questions of the prospective therapist.
But the truth is, there is much more to choosing a mental health professional besides lifting up a phone and making an appointment.
Asking the Right Questions
Almost anyone can call themselves a counselor, so choosing someone to work with based on this title offers no clues about the person’s credentials, schooling or integrity and almost no protection in the event you receive substandard service.
Titles, such as marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist can only be used by persons with the corresponding credentials who’ve received specific education and training.
Furthermore, licensed mental health practitioners such as these should be members in good standing with their respective licensing bodies. Verifying this information will allow you to know something about the education and training the mental health provider has received and provide you some degree of protection in the event your receive poor or improper treatment.
That having been said, verifying a mental health practitioner’s license and qualifications doesn’t give very many details about their particular learning, competence and whether they’ll suit your needs.
The only way you can learn if a therapist or counselor is able to deliver the assistance you need is by asking them questions, such as:
What age ranges do you treat?
What problems do you work with?
What sort of instruction and certifications have you obtained?
How many years have you been providing therapy?
Have you been in therapy yourself?
How do you work with clients that helps them get better?
Do you participate in any professional groups?
Do you update your education and training?
You needn’t ask all of these – especially in a first session when you need a lot of time to talk yourself. But do ask them. And trust your sense of safety with the therapist in the first session. One of the most important determinants of successful counseling is the connection or “fit” between you and your therapist. If you don’t feel comfortable and safe with the therapist you’re working with, it will be nearly impossible for you to do the deep honest work necessary to heal and grow.
Beyond determining the credentials, experience, and expertise of the counselor and how comfortable and safe you feel with them, the therapist should ask several questions about you and your situation. They too should make sure there is a reasonable match between your personality, needs and goals and who they are and the services they offer.
The counselor will need to question you about what brings you to counseling, as well as about your family members and general past. They will also ask questions regarding your childhood, schooling, interpersonal relationships, intimate relationships, vocation and present circumstances.
Always bear in mind, even the very best therapists may not be the most effective for everyone, and no therapist can appropriately handle anything and everything. When considering a psychotherapist, have them provide an example of an issue that is outside the range of their practice, or they are insufficiently trained to treat. If they are unable to or will not reply, you’ve just eliminated a prospect. Every mental health professional should be willing to recommend other professionals upon request.
Where to Begin Your Search
To identify a counselor or psychotherapist that’s right for you, start out your research by asking a family doctor, clergy or any other qualified service providers you rely on for referrals.
You may also ask trusted friends or family, or you can search the Internet for counselors in your area. But be aware, an exceptional ad or Web page isn’t going to make a therapist skilled or experienced. Ask the therapist about their education and expertise directly, regardless of whether you obtain a recommendation from a reliable source.
Similar to determining any professional to work with, doing due diligence and making a thorough assessment about whom to use will increase the chance that therapy will meet your needs and allow you to achieve your objectives. You shouldn’t be self-conscious or frightened to ask point-blank questions… After all, your future health, well-being and happiness is at stake!
To learn more about counseling and therapy, visit Mark Tinley’s website on counseling and therapy in Pasadena, CA.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow very nice article yes i consider this way to find out the best counselor for you.Counselor service provider provide many services and different way for counseling for more about #professional counselor
Thanks for this.
Excellent advice for selecting a therapist. I especially liked what you wrote about the importance of “the connection or “fit” ” creating the required comfort level.
Thank you.
Lorn Hughs@HVAC Training´s last [type] ..What is an HVAC Technician?
Great advice! It is sooo difficult to find a really good therapist for YOU.