18 Questions to Ask Your New or Potential Therapist/Counselor
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma is a courageous step, and finding the right therapist is so important to this journey. As you consider potential trauma therapists, know that it’s ok to ask questions and gather information so that you can make a decision you feel good about! Here are 18 questions to consider asking your potential therapist.
1. What is your experience in treating trauma?
Understanding a therapist's experience with treating trauma. Inquire about their years of practice, specific training in trauma therapy, and any certifications related to trauma treatment.
2. What therapeutic approaches do you use for trauma?
Different therapists employ various therapeutic approaches. Ask about their preferred methods, whether it's Person-Centered (Rogerian), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or other modalities. At Ethredge Counseling Group, we recommend finding a therapist who uses what’s called “bottom up” modalities, vs “top down”. This just means they should have a more holistic approach because we know that we can’t just focus on thinking. As much as we would like it to be so, we can’t just think our way out of problems. We need to include mindfulness and holistic approaches.
3. Have you worked with clients who have experienced similar traumas to mine?
Assessing a therapist's experience with specific traumas ensures they have the expertise to address your unique needs. Ask about their familiarity with the type of trauma you've experienced.
4. How do you tailor your approach to each individual's needs?
Personalization is key in trauma therapy. Inquire about the therapist's ability to tailor their approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. If you work with a therapist who uses prolonged exposure therapy or specific CBT or DBT protocol, there may not be as much tailoring to your unique experience and needs, thought that is not always the case.
5. What is your perspective on the therapeutic relationship?
Understanding the therapist's perspective on the therapeutic relationship helps you gauge whether their approach aligns with your expectations and comfort level.
6. How do you handle confidentiality in therapy?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Ensure the therapist explains their approach to confidentiality and the limits to it, adhering to ethical standards. If you work with an unlicensed “counselor”, they will not have undergone training in HIPPA and confidentiality, which could pose some risks to you as the client. It’s paramount that you know what you share will be kept confidential.
7. What is your stance on involving family or support systems in therapy?
Some individuals find involving family or support systems beneficial in trauma therapy. Discuss the therapist's stance on including loved ones in the therapeutic process. Some may not offer this, while others may offer a more formal consult with your spouse, if therapeutically appropriate.
8. How do you handle emergencies or crises outside of session hours?
Emergencies can arise, and it's essential to know how your therapist handles crises outside of regular session hours. Inquire about their policies and available resources in case of urgent situations. Ethredge Counseling Group does not offer crisis services.
9. How do you approach the integration of mind-body techniques in trauma therapy?
Mind-body techniques, such as mindfulness or somatic experiencing, can be incredibly beneficial in trauma therapy. Inquire about the therapist's perspective on integrating these approaches into the treatment plan. Art therapy is an incredible therapy treatment that works because it is using the mind-body connection that incorporates the right brain in profoundly healing ways, for example.
10. Do you provide a treatment plan, and how do you measure progress?
Ask whether the therapist provides a structured plan and how they measure success and milestones. Ideally the therapist will base sessions on what the client needs. This approach empowers the client to take ownership of their healing and therapy experience. Be ware of therapists who have a whole treatment plan without knowing you and your unique experience and needs.
11. Are you familiar with trauma-related issues, such as PTSD or complex trauma?
Ensure the therapist is well-versed in trauma-related issues, including specific diagnoses like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or complex trauma, ideally from a holistic understanding of there whole person and the person’s context, vs simply focusing on thoughts and cognitions. Remember, the brain is only one part of the whole system that is the human body! Trauma is stored in the body, not simply in the brain as a conscious memory.
12. How do you handle setbacks or challenges in the therapeutic process?
Setbacks are a natural part of the healing journey. Inquire about the therapist's approach to handling challenges and setbacks. Hopefully the therapist will indicate that setbacks are a natural, normal, and even important part of growth, and that true growth that lasts, is slow and at times imperceptible.
13. What is your approach to self-care for clients between sessions?
Self-care is integral to the healing process. Ask the therapist about their recommendations for self-care practices and coping strategies between therapy sessions.
14. How do you involve clients in the goal-setting process?
Collaboration in goal-setting empowers clients in their healing journey. Discuss the therapist's approach to involving clients in setting therapeutic goals.
15. Can you explain the billing process and discuss insurance coverage?
Understanding the financial aspects of therapy is crucial. Inquire about the therapist's billing process, session fees, and whether they accept insurance or offer Superbills for potential reimbursement.
16. How do you foster a safe and comfortable therapeutic space?
A safe and comfortable environment is essential for effective therapy. Discuss the therapist's approach to creating a space that promotes healing and trust.
17. Can you provide information about your continuing education and professional development?
A commitment to ongoing learning indicates a therapist's dedication to staying current in the field. Inquire about their participation in continuing education and professional development.
18. How do you support clients in transitioning from therapy to independent coping?
Ultimately, therapy aims to equip individuals with the tools to navigate life independently. Ask the therapist about their approach to supporting clients in transitioning from therapy to implementing coping strategies autonomously.
Empowering yourself with these questions will help you make an informed decision in selecting a trauma therapist who aligns with your needs and supports your unique healing journey. Remember that finding the right therapist is a significant step towards reclaiming your well-being and resilience in the face of trauma.
If you live in South Carolina and would like to schedule a free 20 min consultation with a licensed counselor, click the button below!
