I recently had a potential client come in to a session to "interview" me for the job of his therapist. This wasn't the first time I've been vetted for that position, but the occurence is realtively rare, as colleagues I questioned confirmed. It lead me to questioning "Why don't more people interview potential counselors before signing on as a client?" Certainly, most providers in the field would welcome these encounters--as helping professionals, our priority is the client's optimum care. If that care can be better provided by another counselor, we are happy to facilitate that connection. After all, it's all about what the client needs. And, like any relationship, the therapist/client connection works best when there is an atmosphere of comfort, the ability to build trust, and a shared vision of what the client is looking for. If you are considering pursuing counseling (or even changing therapists) here are some things to consider:
1. Insurance limitations. The recommendation you got from your neighbor or the suggestion from your doctor may end up being the perfect fit, save one tiny detail: the counselor doesn't accept your insurance. If using your insurance benefits is important to you (as it is to most folks!) check out your insurance company's website to see if the counselor is listed as an approved provider. Or better yet, as those websites are notoriously inaccurate and out-of-date, call the counselor and ask him yourself. We understand potential clients' desire to utilize their insurance benefits. We will let you know if we take your insurance so you can either set up an interview appointment or move on to the next name on your list.
2. Compatability. Consider what you are looking for in a therapist. Do you need someone who will be direct and blunt, who will push you to make needed changes in your life? Or are you looking for a supportive presence, someone who will provide reassurance, a safe sounding board, and nurturing to help you decide what life path is best for you? Maybe you have no idea what would work best for you. In that case, think about other professionals you've worked with, whether they be your physician, your dentist, even your accountant. Some people benfitted from their mechanic taking the time to walk them through the car repairs, even providing diagrams of the problem and solution. Perhaps they would prefer a counselor who is willing to explain theories, map out treatment goals and benchmarks for meeting them, and suggest books or videos that could be helpful to the treatment process. Perhaps you've enjoyed your phsyician's willingness to take extra time during vists, when needed, and listened thoughtfully and empathically to your physical complaints before partnering with you to create a solution. You might match best with a clinician who is nurturing, supportive and willing to build a long-term relationship with clients, versus having a short-term, behavioral approach to dealing with life issues. Whatever your preference, you are most likely to get your therapy needs met from someone who makes you feel comfortable and understood.
3. Constraints. Find out the therapist's hours, availability by phone or during a crisis, accessibility of her office, and modes for paying fees. While your cousin may rave about her counselor, if the worker's office hours are only during the evening, and you work at those times; or if you know you may need support by phone between visits, and the counselor has rules against regular phone contact, the fit won't work for your needs. Similarly, make sure the counselor works in modalities that you require: some therapists provide individual, couples and family therapy, while others specialize in only one type of treatment. Some therapists take credit cards for payment, others only checks or cash. Find out if the therapist bills the insurance directly, or if it will be up to you to get reimbursed by your insurer.
4. Licensure and experience. Counselors are used to being asked about their credentials, since our licensure often determines our eligibility for insurance reimbursement. Be sure that the counselor's license is accepted by your insurance carrier before you get started. Similarly, ask the therapist directly about her experience and comfort with working with people with your presenting concerns. Our goal is for you to get your needs met--if we aren't experienced with the issues you're confronting, we usually know someone who is.
5. Approach to collaboration. Will the counselor work together with your primary care physician or psychiatrist to ensure a holistic approach to your wellness goals? You may wish for your therapist to have contact with your family members; be sure that approach fits with the counselor's orientation. And ask about their relationships with other professionals in the field. It's helpful if your counselor has a network of trusted referrals if you need an evaluation for medication or are looking for a group therapy experience to augment your work with your counselor.
6. Trust your gut. While it's admirable that some clients are willing to give the therapy relationship a few sessions to determine if they feel comfortable with the counselor, it's my personal bias thar most clients know by the end of the first session if the fit will be productive. Your time is valuable; if you question whether the counselor can truly understand your issues or empathize with your feelings, feel confident in choosing to move on to the next referral on your list. You deserve the best care, and counselor's are committed to helping you get it, whether that's in our offices or the collague's down the hall.
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