Finding The Right Therapist Can Feel Daunting

As folks try their best to adapt to these hard times, many are considering mental health supports like psychotherapy for the first time. To make it a little easier, Shift offers free 15-minute consultations so that you have an opportunity to find a therapist that fits you and your needs before you jump in.

If you’re not sure what the right fit looks like for you, here are some guiding questions to consider asking during a consultation: 

1. What can I expect coming to therapy with you?

If this is your first venture into therapy, asking this question will give you an idea of how your potential therapist structures their sessions and what their approach to therapy is like. This will help you decide if the therapist's approach aligns with your goals and if they can support you in the collaborative work of therapy.

2. What kind of “therapeutic framework” do you use? How would it help me?

There are a variety of different therapeutic frameworks or modalities out there (which just means approaches or styles of therapy). Some may fit with your values and goals more readily than others. Asking this question will give you the opportunity to learn about some of these modalities. From there, use a google search to further explore how this modality could help you reach your goals. 

3. How do you ensure safety?

For many people, going to therapy is the first time they choose to discuss issues around which they carry shame, guilt or difficult emotions. This kind of sharing is difficult, especially with a complete stranger. If you’re in this situation, this question can help ensure your prospective therapist is someone with whom you can build a relationship of trust. Your safety is the foundation. When you’re safe, you can explore and collaborate with your therapist, and be successful.

4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

For a therapist, it is integral to be self-reflective and to guide our clients in the right direction. Most therapists have a background--whether through continuing education, work or life experience--that provides us with unique strengths and areas of expertise. They will also have areas in which they’re inexperienced. A therapist should be aware of their own and straightforward about the strengths they have and also the limitations that exist in their practice. It may be a red flag if a therapist is not forthcoming about their limitations in practice.

Feeling Supported

I hope this list of introductory questions helps guide you to a therapist that responds to your needs and helps you meet your goals. Remember that these consultations are for you, so you can be sure the therapist is the right fit for you. If it’s not, there’s no obligation and no hard feelings. Take advantage of the opportunity and know that you have options for finding your perfect therapist!

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This article was written by Sean Ferkul during their time at Shift Collab.