Important Questions to Ask A Potential Therapist
Deciding to start therapy can often be a difficult decision to make. As much as we may need it, seeking help from a therapist may mean overcoming personal, familial, or societal stigmas associated with therapy. Unfortunately, sometimes this means people come to the conclusion that therapy is not right for them. The truth is, however, that there is no single category or type of struggle that qualifies a person for therapy. Therapists can be seen for a multitude of reasons. As a therapist in the Hermosa Beach and South Bay area, the piece of advice I give most frequently is when deciding to start therapy, the fit between you and the therapist is the factor that matters the most.
Finding A Hermosa Beach Therapist
I know just how important it is to find a therapist who is a good fit for you. Yet, for some this may not always be an easy task. That is why I have provided a list of 5 important questions that any client should ask a potential therapist when they meet with him or her for the first time.
1. What is/are your areas of expertise?
At my South Bay office, I know how important it is to not only feel understood, but also to feel confident that your particular needs will be met. That is why it is helpful to find a therapist who is familiar with treating the specific issues you are wanting to address.
2.Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?
Determining the style of your therapist is a crucial element to consider as well. Some clients who struggle to open up may prefer a therapist who is more active and direct in leading the session. On the other hand, some individuals may prefer to guide themselves and take the lead in the direction of each session.
3. My problem is _______. How would you go about treating that?
Though this question may seem a bit silly for some to ask, a brief rundown can provide you with some early insight into what to expect in therapy. Because we know how important this is, the therapists in my Hermosa Beach practice, as well as myself, try to provide you with an idea of our therapy style so that you can decide early on whether or not we are the best therapist for you.
4. What types of things would you expect me to do between sessions, if anything?
Some therapists have a more directive style of therapy which may include at-home assignments, “homework”, or exercises. Other therapists come from a more psychodynamic or psychoanalytic background and may tend to focus on how your childhood experiences and relationships are impacting you in the present.
5. What are your strengths as a therapist?
Though this question is not asked very frequently, I feel that it is an important one to ask. This question allows you to see what your therapist’s strongest attributes are, which may represent what they feel are important qualities a therapist should have. It can provide you some insight into their style and how engaged they will be.
Contact Your Hermosa Beach Therapist Today!
If you are interested in therapy in the South Bay or Hermosa Beach area, I encourage you to visit my practice. At Kelly Mothner PHD, my therapists and I work hard to make sure you are matched with the right therapist for you. We understand that a connection to your therapist and their particular style is crucial in achieving a successful treatment outcome. If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today!