How to prepare for a therapy consultation

Jan 9

You’ve searched hundreds of profiles and are ready to schedule a consultation. There are a few things you can do to make the most out of your appointment. Below are some tips and tricks to help you prepare.

What to expect

Consults typically last 15-20 minutes over a video or phone call.
If you aren’t sure what to say or where to start, that’s okay! You can ask the therapist to begin first or for them to ask you questions to get things rolling.
After your conversation, consider if you’d like to move forward. There should never be pressure or obligation to commit on the spot. You can always follow up with an email about your decision.

How to prepare

Has your mind ever gone blank when it’s your time to talk? It’s the worst! Write down any questions or any specific topics you want to cover. This will ensure you cover everything you need to.
Remember, you’ll only have 15-20 minutes, so share the highlights instead of the details of what brings you to therapy; this will leave enough time for you and the therapist to ask questions or discuss the next steps.

Examples of questions to ask during a therapy consult

How would you describe your therapy style?
How do you view your role as a therapist? (expert versus collaborator)
What does a therapy session with you look like?
What therapy practices/methods do you use the most?
What is your experience working with…?
What are your values/principles?
What work have you done around your race, gender, ability, etc.? How might your identities show up in the work you do with me?
Have you been in therapy before?
Will I have the same session day/time, or will we schedule sessions as we go?
What is your cancellation policy?
Are you flexible if I reschedule or change my appointment time altogether?
Are sessions in-person or virtual?
Do you take insurance? If not, will you provide a superbill?
What is your fee? Do you offer a sliding scale?
I’m interested. What are the next steps?

After the consult, reflection questions

How did you feel about the consult overall? What was your overall impression?
Did you feel comfortable? Did you feel understood?
Do you have any questions you didn’t ask? If so, should you follow up with an email?

What if a therapist tells me they’re not a "good fit”:

You can ask the therapist why and if they have anyone they can refer you to.
Having a therapist say this can feel like rejection or just plain awkward. Remind yourself that it's not personal and you wouldn't want to work with someone who cannot safely hold space for you.

Additional resources to help you prepare: