Choosing Who Walks Beside You
A practical guide to finding a counselor who is right for you. You don't have to ask every question. Choose the ones that matter most to you.
Knowing Your Guide
Are you licensed, and what are your qualifications?
Do you have experience helping people with concerns similar to mine?
Are there particular issues you specialize in?
Understanding the Approach
What is your approach to counseling?
What might a typical session look like?
How do you decide which counseling methods to use?
Will we work together to establish goals?
Building Trust Along the Way
What if I disagree with something you say?
Can I tell you if something in counseling isn’t working for me?
How will we know whether I’m making progress?
What happens if I feel we’re not a good fit?
Knowing the Terrain
How does confidentiality work, and what are its limits?
What are your fees, and do you accept insurance?
Do you offer in-person sessions, telehealth, or both?
What is your cancellation policy?
Taking Your First Step
What happens during the first appointment?
Do I need to know exactly what I want to work on before starting?
How often would we meet?
What if I decide counseling isn’t right for me at this time?
One More Question
How will you help me become more capable of managing life's challenges on my own?
After Your Conversation
Did I feel heard, respected, and comfortable asking questions?