Questions to Help You Find The Right Therapist.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and finding the right therapist is crucial for a positive experience. You want to ensure you're comfortable and confident with your choice. Here are some important questions to ask a prospective therapist, designed to help you feel informed and at ease.

1. What are your qualifications and experience?

It’s essential to know the therapist's background. Ask about their qualifications, training, and how long they’ve been practising. Knowing they have the proper credentials and experience can help you feel more confident in their abilities.

I have a degree, a separate therapy qualification that is Level Five (equivalent to first year depgree level), I undertake supervision and have a committment to continuous professional development. I am a former secondary school Designated Safeguarding Lead and have extensive experience working with young people, teens and families as well as individuals with every challenge imaginable.

2. What is your approach to therapy?

Therapists use various approaches, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, or person-centred therapy. Understanding their approach can help you determine if it aligns with your preferences and needs. Don't hesitate to ask for an explanation if you're not familiar with the terms.

I use a wide range of therapeutic approaches and not just one. These include solution focused brief therapy, neuro-linguistic programming, CBT and hypnotherapy. The approaches I use are backed by the latest sceintific findings around how the brain works and evidence based...they are highly effective!

3. Have you worked with people who have similar issues to mine?

It can be comforting to know that your therapist has experience dealing with issues similar to yours. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, knowing they’ve helped others in similar situations can be reassuring.

I have a very broad range of experience dealing with OCD, phobias, anxiety, stress, performance - sports and professional, weight management amonst many, many others...feel free to ask me.

4. What can I expect from our sessions?

This question helps set expectations about the structure and flow of your sessions. Will there be homework or exercises? How often will you meet, and how long are the sessions? Understanding this upfront can help you prepare and feel more comfortable.

I offer a free initial consultation where I explain what happens in our sessions. The explanation of why we do what we do really helps to move people forward.

5. How do you handle confidentiality?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Make sure you understand how your information will be kept private and under what circumstances, if any, confidentiality might be breached (e.g., risk of harm to self or others).

100% confidentiality is assured and guaranteed.

6. What is your availability?

It's important to know if the therapist’s schedule aligns with yours. Ask about their availability for regular sessions and what their policy is for cancellations or rescheduling. Flexibility can be crucial, especially if you have a busy or unpredictable schedule.

People are busy and lead full lives - we can find a time that works for you during the week.

7. What are your fees, and do you offer a sliding scale?

Understanding the financial aspect is crucial. Ask about the cost per session and whether they offer a sliding scale based on income. Additionally, find out if they accept your insurance or if there are any payment plans available.

I charge £85 a session. When thinking of the cost bear in mind that results are expected relatively quickly - we are not looking at a process of years!

8. How do you measure progress?

It's helpful to know how the therapist tracks progress. Do they use specific tools or assessments? How will you know if the therapy is working? This can provide you with a sense of direction and purpose in your sessions.

We scale in every session from 0-10. This, alongisde our discussions, allow us to evaluate progress.

9. What happens if we don't click?

Sometimes, despite best efforts, you might not feel a connection with your therapist. It’s perfectly okay to ask about their policy on this. A good therapist will understand and may even offer recommendations for other professionals.

This is fine. It's actually one of the reasons that I offer a free initial consultation. You get a chance to see that I am an empatheitc human being who can help and support you. If we don't click, you simply don't go ahead with sessions. Ask me for a recommendation. I won't be offended. I genuinely want to work with people who I can help progress.

10. Can you provide references or testimonials?

While not all therapists will have testimonials due to confidentiality reasons, some might have anonymised feedback or professional references. This can give you an additional layer of reassurance about their effectiveness and approach.

Check my google reviews for a flavour of the positivity around client progress.

Final Thoughts

Remember, it’s perfectly okay to ask these questions. You’re entrusting this person, who may well be me, with your mental health, and you have every right to ensure they’re the right fit for you. A good therapist will appreciate your diligence and be more than willing to provide the information you need. Take your time, trust your instincts, and choose someone you feel comfortable with. Your therapeutic journey is personal and important, and finding the right guide can make all the difference.

Do get in touch for a free initial consultation beechwoodtherapies@gmail.com