If you’ve been in therapy previously, you probably know it’s a life-changing process. If you never have, you may not know the things to look for in a therapist or counselor. Either way, you might not know what questions to ask a prospective counselor.
Often before people begin therapy, they’ve tried just about everything else to make changes in their lives. But nothing has worked – at least not for very long. As the emotional discomfort turns to anguish, it’s not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Why not try therapy? I have to do something to stop the pain.”
Unfortunately, when we’re hurting a lot, we typically don’t think clearly, and many people turn to counseling and therapy (whether for individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, or family therapy) without asking any questions of the prospective therapist.
But the truth is, there is much more to choosing a mental health professional besides lifting up a phone and making an appointment.
Asking the Right Questions
Almost anyone may call himself or herself a counselor, so choosing someone to work with on the basis of this title offers little insight into the person’s credentials, training or credibility and almost no protection should you receive poor service.
Titles, like marriage and family therapist, licensed clinical social worker, psychologist, or psychiatrist can only be used by people with the equivalent qualifications who’ve acquired specific education and training.
Furthermore, licensed mental health practitioners such as these ought to be members in good standing with their respective licensing entities. Verifying this information will let you know a little about the degree and preparation the mental health practitioner has gained and gives you some amount of safety in the event that you experience sub-standard or inappropriate treatment.
Yet, verifying a mental health professional’s license and credentials doesn’t give you a great deal of information regarding their specialized learning, experience and whether they’ll be able to meet your needs.
The only way you can learn if a therapist or counselor is able to deliver the assistance you need is by asking them questions, such as:
What age ranges do you work with?
What problems do you work with?
What kind of education and training have you had?
How many years have you been practicing?
Have you been in therapy yourself?
How do you work with people to help them get well?
Are you a member of any professional organizations?
Do you update your instruction and training?
You needn’t ask every one of these – especially in an initial appointment when you need lots of time to talk yourself. But do ask them. And trust your impression of safety with the psychotherapist in the initial session. Perhaps the most significant determinant of effective counseling is the bond or “fit” between both you and your psychotherapist. Unless you feel relaxed and safe with your psychotherapist, it will be practically impossible for you to do the deep, insightful work needed to heal and thrive.
Other than determining the qualifications, training, and capabilities of a counselor and exactly how comfortable and safe you are with them, the therapist should ask various questions about you and your circumstances. They too need to ensure there exists an acceptable match between your personality, expectations and goals and who they are and the services they provide.
The counselor will need to question you about what brings you to counseling, as well as about your family members and general past. They will also ask questions regarding your childhood, schooling, interpersonal relationships, intimate relationships, vocation and present circumstances.
Don’t forget, even excellent counselors aren’t going to be the most helpful for every individual, and no therapist can competently treat anything and everything. When considering a therapist, have them provide an example of a problem that is outside the extent of their practice, or that they are insufficiently educated to treat. If they can’t or do not reply, you’ve just done away with a prospect. Every mental health professional should be prepared to refer you to other providers at your request.
Where to Begin Your Search
To identify a therapist or counselor suited to you, start off your research by asking a doctor, local clergy or some other professionals you trust for referrals.
You may also ask trusted friends or family members, or you can search the Internet for therapists near you. Just keep in mind, a good ad or Web page doesn’t make a therapist qualified or experienced. Ask the counselor about their qualifications and experience directly, even if you receive a referral from a trusted source.
As with choosing any service provider, doing some homework and making an informed decision about whom to work with will increase the likelihood that counseling will meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. Don’t be shy or afraid to ask point-blank questions… After all, this is about your future health, well-being and happiness!
Mark Tinley is a counselor and therapist in Pasadena, CA, where he specializes in providing therapy and counseling services.