Following your loved ones, your therapist is perhaps the most crucial person in your life. They help you navigate tough challenges and maintain your mental health. They allow you to be more self-aware and take better care of yourself. That’s why you need to be very careful while asking questions before choosing a therapist.
Bad practices in therapy include being dishonest with the patient, not setting treatment goals, not being regular with treatment, and many more. You can ask the following questions from a therapist to gauge whether they are the right fit for you. Remember that not every treatment style is for everyone, and it is okay to switch your therapist if their current framework isn’t working.
Ask These Revealing Questions Before Choosing A Therapist
1. What are your certifications and experience?
There are different qualifications for providing therapy to someone. Do a background check on your therapist to understand whether they have the certifications necessary for delivering your treatment. Knowing whether they are experienced in treating your condition is also vital. Most therapists can provide treatment for anxiety or depression. Still, asking them about their experiences will help you better understand their specializations and skillset.
2. What is your treatment plan for someone going through my condition?
As you might already know, therapy comes in different shapes and forms. You can even say that no two therapies are the same since no two patients are the same. Being clear about your treatment module(for example, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, etc.) and the approach that works best for you is essential.
3. How can I expect to grow through therapy?
Address how you will grow through therapy beforehand. You can also ask what your therapist will do if the signs of growth do not show up. These questions will help you better understand their treatment style and therapy goals.
Read more: Mental health therapy goals.
4. What is the complete pricing plan?
A potential therapist’s pricing plan is one of the first questions you should ask them. Some therapists provide relief for lower annual income, while others have a different pricing plan for each patient. You can also enquire whether the payment will be per session, monthly, or whole.
5. How can I access you?
Many variations of online therapy provide 24/7 access for patients making it a preferred option. You may also prefer an in-person treatment if you prefer a personal appeal. Ask your therapist whether it is okay to contact them anytime or only during business hours. You can also ask them how long sessions usually take to plan your time accordingly.
Read more: 5 best online therapy platforms.
Conclusion
Your therapist is one of the most influential people in your life. They help you navigate challenging situations and work toward better mental health. These questions to ask before choosing a therapist can help you understand their treatment plan, experiences, pricing plan & much more about therapy. One essential part of therapy modules is building skills for mental health maintenance. Here are some mental health skill-building activities to help you live more healthily.
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