Have Therapy Questions? What To Ask Your Therapist Before You Begin Sessions

What modalities does your therapist use in their work? If you’re looking to be treated through a specific method, what experience or training does your therapist have with that therapeutic method? Is their general therapy approach to their work structured or eclectic? Therapeutic style can make a difference to whether the partnership feels like a fit so don’t be shy to explore it.

How long has the therapist been in practice? Where have they trained? What is their professional designation and if applicable, which college are they regulated by? What populations do they typically serve? Do they have experience working with the concerns you’re bringing in? How might they approach the material you’re looking to explore in therapy? These questions can help you to build some initial trust with your therapist and explore potential treatment directions.

Does the therapist work virtually (online or by telephone), in person, or do they offer a hybrid of both? How long are their sessions? Are they an independent practitioner or part of a group practice or clinic? Which neighbourhood, city, or province are they located? If they work virtually, what platform(s) do they use? If they work in person, is their office accessible to you? What forms of payment do they accept? These are all important practical pieces to be aware of.

Can the therapist offer you a regular weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly appointment? How far in advance do they book? If you would like a set time for your regular session, is that available? Can they accommodate bookings on short notice? Are their hours and availability workable with your schedule? How many sessions per week or per month can you reasonably commit to? How far in advance would your therapist need notice to reschedule? Is there a waitlist? Both your and your therapist’s time are a consideration for moving forward with the collaboration.

What is the therapist’s fee? Do they have sliding scale options available if needed? Do they offer direct billing to insurance? Do they provide receipts? When can you expect your therapist to increase their rate? What is their cancellation policy? Do they charge a fee for late cancellations? What fee do they charge if you cancel late or no show to your session? Every therapist has different boundaries, needs, and limits surrounding the financial frame of their practice, therefore having this information can prepare you for what to expect and allow you to explore what would be sustainable financially for you.

Having the necessary information can help you to make an informed decision about your treatment and care. Choose which therapy questions feel most relevant to you when first speaking with your therapist, notice how you feel after your consult, and trust that by reaching out for a consultation, you’re already taking a significant step towards finding the right support.