VAUGHAN, Ontario
Max Becker’s Text, ‘A Book of Help’ provides an excellent list of questions to ask a therapist before you actually meet. Here is a summary:
- What type of training do you have working with individuals with my concern?
- What is your philosophy (theoretical orientation)?
- What are your fees? Do you accept insurance?
- What’s your experience working with individuals who have come to you with my concern?
- What treatment approach would you use?
- How long do you usually see clients with these issues?
- Are you available for phone calls? Appointments on short notice?
- What would be my responsibility as a client/patient
Max provides questions you consider asking yourself when the initial phone call or session has completed.
- What was initially feeling when I spoke to this person?
- How comfortable was I speaking to this individual?
- Did I receive any help?
- Were my questions answered warming and openly?
- Did the person listen to my concerns?
- Did they seem honest, open and respectful?
- Did this person encourage me to solve problems on my own?
- Did they seem judgmental?
- Did they offer advice? (remember, no therapist should offer you advice)
