Things to Ask in Therapy

Going to therapy is a big step in and of itself, and you can go for so many reasons.  The relationship between therapist and client is very important because this is someone you should be able to trust.  You should be able to go to them for guidance and support.  However, good quality relationships don’t happen overnight, and that’s with everything.  It takes time to build a strong bond.  Here are some questions you shouldn’t be afraid to ask your therapist, that may give you more insight on who they are.

            “What is your experience?”  Most likely, your therapist will have this posted on their website or some platform of that sort, but it is always good to ask.  This is a very important question because it will give you background on their education and what their focus points are within their career.  Every therapist is different and they all specialize in different areas.  This is good information to know.

            “How will we measure our progress?”  This is SO important!  You, as the client, have the right to know what you’ll be getting out of your sessions.  It is good to form a plan with your therapist to track that progress and set goals for yourself.  This discussion will allow you to set boundaries and create key topics to talk about.  It’s a great question to ask and will give you hope for your long term goals.

            “What kind of therapy do you offer?”  There are so many forms of therapy out there, and you might like and dislike numerous concepts.  It is important to educate yourself on the options that your therapist has to offer.  This way you know the skill set that your therapist has and you can pick and choose what you would like to try out.  This will hopefully give you a well-rounded experience!

            The list really goes on and on regarding different conversations to have with your therapist.  All of these discussions can help direct you on your path and assist in your relationship with your therapist.  Don’t be afraid to ask.  This is why you have a therapist in the first place.  They are there to listen and provide guidance, so they will want to ensure that your questions are answered.  Therefore, use it to your advantage and ask your questions!

-Written by Jessica Skrelunas, intern