Your first phone consultation
A phone consultation allows your provider to learn a bit more about your reasons for therapy and gauge if they are the best fit to support your needs.
If you feel a bit nervous about talking on the phone and you’re unsure what to say - you’re not alone! This article is meant to help prepare you for that first introduction so you feel more confident going into it.
What Your Therapist may Ask…
- What would you like to be called? // How would you like to be addressed? (You can also share your pronouns)
- What brings you to therapy? // Why are you interested in beginning therapy?
- Have you engaged in therapy before? // If so, how was your previous experience with therapy? What were some things you liked or disliked?
- Are there any spiritual, cultural, and/or religious factors that contribute to your identity and may influence/be a part of your care?
- Is there anything you’re hoping to work on?
Maybe you have specific goals in mind for therapy, maybe you’re just looking for a safe space to talk through daily stressors. If you have goals, share them. If you don’t have concrete goals in mind, that's fine - start with what prompted you to seek therapy now.
What You may want to Ask:
- How much experience do you have treating concerns like mine?
- What kind of treatment styles do you use? // Can you explain what those treatment styles are?
- How long have you been practicing as a therapist?
- Are you from this city?
- How often do you anticipate we will meet? For how long?
- Do you give homework or reading to clients?
- Have you been in therapy yourself?
- What should I expect from a typical session?
- Are you politically progressive or conservative?
- Are you religious? // How does that impact your approach to therapy?
While there are many advantages to phone consultations, building trust and rapport with a therapist takes time and you may not know if a provider is a good fit from a phone call alone. Check out our article on what to expect for your first session for more info to consider when looking for a provider!