What questions should I ask a potential therapist in Windsor, California?
How do I know what I should know about a new counselor?
You’ve got a few names picked and a couple consultations set up with some therapists in Sonoma County. Whittling down that list of counselors near Windsor, CA was a challenge, and challenge completed. You are optimistic and want to start your healing journey. And. What do you need to know?
You are sitting across the room (or at the screen) with the counselor who may just be the one. You know that choosing a good fit for a therapist is important. And now that you’re sitting here, you don’t know what you need to know. This is a big choice. Let me help you figure out where to get started.
The most important question is going to be one that you ask yourself, not the therapist. That question is very simply, “How do I feel talking to this person?”. You are going to touch those boxes in the back of your mind that you don’t often pull out and generally trigger shame. Can you imagine displaying these parts of yourself, the stuff you don’t even like to look at yourself, to the person you are talking to? And I don’t mean in this moment, I mean is there potential there? That is foremost in this journey.
Now, for the questions you ask the clinician:
How do you work? What can I expect in session?: Each counselor has their own style and way of being in the room with you. Some clinicians are more involved and directive, some allow you space to process your feelings and experiences. Some will give you activities outside of session and some will not. Do you want structure? Or something more fluid? Not all therapists talk about your past, some work from the here and now. Do you have preference?
How often should we meet? How long do you typically see people for?: There are different kinds of therapy. There are kinds that are short and solution focused. Others will tell you that it is around the year mark that clients really dig into what the underlying issues are. Each has benefits and negatives. Think about what would make the most sense for you.
Have you worked with (enter your primary concern here) before?: Knowing that your therapist has experience working with what you are seeking support with is important. Finding out how a counselor sees working with your primary concern will help you visualize what the path to healing looks like.
A few pragmatic questions, including fees, session lengths, and insurance should be asked at the initial consultation as well. You want to feel comfortable knowing the finances and time expectations of therapy.
More than anything, remember these folks want to help. They’re not scary. In fact, if they feel scary, that means they are not the right fit for you. And it’s ok if you meet a few duds. Your job is to find a therapist who feels like a good fit and with whom you feel you can connect. It's not personal if you pass on a less than optimal counselor. They will know that it is not personal.
If you have more questions about questions, or if you want clarification about how to tell if someone is a good fit, call me 707.593.6333. I want you to feel good about starting your healing journey in Windsor, CA. If you read this and feel like I have a voice that you connect with, check out my services to help people heal relationships, including the relationship with yourself here and set up a free consultation.
