Key Takeaways: Finding a Good Therapist
To find a good therapist, look for someone who works with your concerns, offers appointments that fit your schedule, and provides the format you prefer: in-person counseling or online teletherapy. Ask questions before scheduling, review the clinic’s fees and paperwork, and remember that you do not need to know exactly what to say at your first appointment.
- Ask about experience: Different therapists work with different ages, concerns, and counseling needs.
- Check the practical details: Ask about appointment times, fees, and in-person or online options.
- Prepare for your first visit: The clinic will explain intake paperwork and check-in instructions.
- Go at your own pace: It is okay to tell your counselor that you are not comfortable discussing something yet.
Hi everyone, I’m Dr. Sabrina Wegner, here to welcome you to Highlight Counseling and answer your questions about starting therapy.
I know it can be intimidating to take that first step and reach out for an appointment. You may not know what to expect, what questions to ask, or what to look for in a therapist to make sure they are a good fit. Let’s walk through the process together.
Getting Started With Therapy
The fact that you are exploring your options is already an important step in taking care of your well-being and mental health. Give yourself credit for getting started.
First, the terms therapy and counseling are often used interchangeably. You may hear me use both to mean the same thing.
I have great respect for clients who do some research to answer their initial questions. Come into therapy with an open mind and a willingness to consider the insight and recommendations a mental health professional shares.
Therapy is a collaborative process between a therapist and a client. Your participation is part of getting the most out of the experience.
How to Contact a Therapist or Counseling Clinic
You can usually make first contact by phone or email, although a phone call may be needed to gather your information.
During that first conversation, the clinic may ask for:
- Your basic demographic and contact information.
- Your availability for appointments.
- A brief explanation of why you are seeking counseling.
The clinic may also share information about its services to help you decide whether it is a good fit.
Choose a Therapist Who Works With Your Needs
Different therapists have training and experience with different client needs. For example, one therapist may work with anxiety while another specializes in eating disorders.
Ask whether the therapist works with your particular concerns and age group. A clinic can explain what it offers and let you know if another provider may be better suited to your needs.
If you are considering Highlight Counseling, you can explore our counseling services in Midland, Texas to learn more about the support available.
Find Appointment Times That Fit Your Schedule
Scheduling is another important part of finding a therapist. Some clinics offer appointments only during regular business hours, while others have evening, weekend, or holiday availability.
My schedule at Highlight Counseling is during regular business hours, with early appointments at 8 a.m. and the latest appointments at 4 p.m.
If you need a specific appointment time, do not be afraid to ask around. You can also ask the clinics you contact whether they know of other providers with different availability.
When I speak with a potential client, I am happy to share my list of nearby therapists who may offer services or schedules I do not, such as counseling for young children or services in Spanish.
Decide Between In-Person Counseling and Teletherapy
Consider whether you would prefer to meet with a counselor at their office or online through teletherapy. Some clinics offer both options, while others offer only one.
At Highlight Counseling, we offer both in-person counseling and teletherapy.
Meeting online is similar to using FaceTime or another video call service. The clinic will explain which video service it uses and provide a link or access instructions for your appointment. You will also receive instructions for downloading an app if one is needed.
What to Expect at Your First Counseling Appointment
Intake Paperwork and Informed Consent
After you schedule your first appointment, the clinic will explain the paperwork you need to complete. This typically includes informed consent documents that explain your rights and important details about counseling, including fees.
Each clinic has its own process. You may complete the paperwork online before your appointment or in person at the office. The clinic will let you know what to do.
Arriving at the Office
If you are attending in person, the clinic will explain where to check in and where to wait for your therapist.
As counselors, we know you may feel nervous during your first visit. Your counselor will guide you through the process, explain any instructions, and work to help you feel comfortable asking questions.
Talking With Your Counselor
Your counselor understands that they are a stranger to you at first. You do not have to talk about everything in one session.
One important thing to remember is that it is okay to say you are not comfortable discussing something or answering a particular question.
Whatever comes up during your first appointment can be a starting point. Your counselor will adapt to what you bring to the conversation, whether you feel talkative, quiet, shy, outgoing, excited, or unsure. Some awkwardness can be part of getting to know each other.
“Go in, be yourself, and be open to sharing with the counselor. That’s the real secret to your first day of counseling.”
No two people need the same counseling experience. You do not need to arrive with a perfect explanation or know how to do everything. Your counselor will help guide you.
Take the Next Step Toward Starting Counseling
I hope this answers some of your questions about finding a therapist, scheduling an appointment, and knowing what to expect during your first visit.
If you have other questions or would like to explore counseling at Highlight Counseling, contact me to ask about services or schedule your first appointment.
Good luck with your next step in taking care of your mental health and well-being.
