Questions to ask a therapist, counselor, or psychologist in Columbia, MO
What questions should I ask a therapist?
By now you may know how many years the therapist, counselor, or psychologist has been in practice and how much education they have. You also may have read about what techniques they will use if you see them. However, the listings and other information may not provide you much of a sense of how the clinician works.
During the phone consultation, you will want to let the therapist know what kind of help you are needing. Just remember this isn’t a counseling session, so describing the situation in a few sentences will ensure you still have time for your questions.
Does my situation look like something that you can help me with?
Asking this question gives the therapist, counselor, or psychologist an opportunity to explain how they work. You will gain valuable insight into the approach and feel of the clinician and their warmth.
I think I may work best with someone who takes their time and helps me get unstuck or puts on the gas and pushes me to move forward (whichever it is you need), is this something you can do for me?
Getting this fit with a therapist may be one of the most important considerations as you choose a counselor in Columbia, MO. You may need to slow things down and take the time to understand what is happening in your life and with your emotions. However, at other times, you may want to work faster and move forward. Whatever it is you need here, if your therapist is working on the opposite end of the spectrum, it can feel like therapy is either too fast and overwhelming or too slow and not working. Having a good fit here means a lot. The mismatch may push you to leave therapy before you receive the benefits of healing.
Do you see clients weekly or every two weeks?
Research shows that participating in therapy weekly for several weeks results in better results. But you may do better seeing a clinician less often. Having a good fit here means you and your therapist are on the same page.
Do you take my insurance (if you plan to use it) or are you out of network?
Doing personal work is a financial investment in you. You may choose to be out of network because it provides you more options as you embark upon your healing. Just knowing this going into the journey can reduce your worry about the cost., something you don’t want to dominate your thoughts. You want to focus on your healing.
I hope this helps you find the right therapist in Columbia, MO. If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call me at (573) 238-8575 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to hear about what is happening and help direct you to the right person. I help Seniors, Caregivers, and Adults heal from Anxiety, Depression, and Grief. So if you are looking for help with Depression and Anxiety, you can read more about how I can help at www.counselingmidmo.com
