Questions To Ask a Potential Therapist

Meeting with a new therapist for the first time can feel daunting, especially if you're coming in with something the average therapist may not be familiar with. Many therapists offer free consultations to see if you'd be a good fit before you start working together, but you may be wondering what questions to ask to ensure they're the right therapist for you.

While niche directories can be a great place to find a provider who specializes in your particular issues, simply being listed doesn't always mean they'll be a good fit. Getting some clarity ahead of booking your first session can help determine if this therapist is the right one for you.

Whether you're looking for a COVID conscious therapist, or someone neurodiversity affirming, here are some questions you can ask a potential provider.

1. What is your experience working with (COVID conscious, neurodivergent, etc clients)?

2. Why have you chosen to work with this population?

3. Do you have lived experience with (your specific community or presenting issue)?

4. Why did you decide to list yourself on this directory?

5. What does being COVID conscious mean to you?

6. What does being neurodiversity affirming mean to you?

7. How do you tailor your approach to work with neurodivergent brains?

8. How do you incorporate social justice into your practice?

9. How do you handle it when clients disagree with you?

10. What do you do when a client tells you something isn't working for them?

11. How do you determine treatment goals for clients with (your presenting issue)?

12. What does treatment usually look like for clients with my presenting issues?

13. Are you familiar with (health related concern) and how it might impact our work together?

14. How do you accommodate accessibility needs?

Remember, a therapist is there to support you! If you don't feel comfortable with someone after an initial consultation, you're not obligated to see them again. I recommend meeting with a few different therapists, if that option is available to you, to make sure you find the right fit.

If you're in California looking for a neurodivergent or COVID conscious therapist, feel free to reach out to me for a free consultation!