What to Ask During a Phone Consultation

Questions to consider during a phone consultation.

Okay, so you're thinking about finding a therapist. Maybe things have been tough, or maybe you just feel like you need someone neutral to talk to. Taking that first step to actually contact someone? That can feel like trying to schedule a first date... times a million. It's totally normal to feel a little nervous or unsure what to do.

Before you even set foot in an office (or log into a video call), lots of therapists offer a quick chat on the phone. Think of this like a mini-interview – for both of you! It's not just the therapist figuring out if they can help you; it's your chance to see if they feel like the right fit. Getting a good connection right from the start is super important for therapy to actually work.

But what are you supposed to ask? You don't want to waste their time or yours. And let's be honest, it's easy to freeze up! To help you out, here are some questions you might consider asking during that first phone chat or at the very beginning of your first session. They come from what experts say really matters when starting therapy.

Think of it like getting the basic info before you dive into the deep stuff. It's definitely not a test you have to pass – it's about figuring out if this person is someone you feel safe talking to and who seems like they can genuinely help.

Here are some ideas for questions:

1. "Can you tell me a little bit about how you typically work with people?" Therapists have different styles. Some might do a lot of talking with you, and others might have you do more activities or "homework" between sessions. Asking how they work can help you see if it matches what you're looking for.

2. "What's your experience with the kinds of problems I'm dealing with?" If you're coming in for something specific, like anxiety or family issues, it's okay to ask if they have experience helping people with that.

3. "How do you see my role in therapy? What will I be expected to do?" Therapy is a team effort. It's good to know if they see you as a partner in the process and what kind of things you might work on.

4. "How do you usually figure out what we should work on, like setting goals?" You've got reasons for reaching out now, and a good therapist will want to understand that from your side. Ask how you'll work together to decide what needs to change.

5. "What should I expect in the first session, and maybe the ones after that?" This helps clear up any mystery. Knowing the plan can make you feel more comfortable. They might talk about getting to know you, figuring out what's most important, or even giving you something helpful right away.

6. "How do you keep track of whether therapy is actually helping me?" Good therapists often have ways to check in on your progress. Some use scales or ask for feedback to make sure they're on the right track for you. It's okay to ask how they do this.

7. "What happens if I feel like therapy isn't working, or if something feels off between us?" It might feel weird to ask this upfront, but misunderstandings can happen in any relationship. Knowing that the therapist is open to talking about difficulties in your connection can be a really good sign.

8. "How do you think about cultural backgrounds or other important parts of who I am?" Everyone's different! A sensitive therapist will think about how your background shapes your experiences. Ask how they make sure they understand your unique world.

9. "What are your fees, how long are sessions, and how does confidentiality work?" These are the practical basics! Don't be shy about asking about the cost, how long you'll meet, and who they might share information with (usually nobody, but it's good to confirm!).

10. "If I've had therapy before, would it be helpful to talk about what that was like – what worked and what didn't?" This can give the therapist valuable clues about what might be helpful this time.

Asking questions like these helps you get a sense of the therapist's style, experience, and personality. It helps you decide if you feel a "meeting of hearts" and a "meeting of minds". It's also your chance to share why you're seeking help now. Trust your gut feeling – do you feel heard? Do they seem genuinely interested? Do you feel a little bit of hope?

Therapists actually expect you to have questions and concerns. It shows you're thinking about the process!

If you're ready to start therapy, you can schedule a phone consultation here!