In last week’s post, I talked about the abundance of psychotherapists available, especially in Santa Monica, the differences between disciplines (i.e. LMFT, LCSW, and PhD/PsyD) and the importance of approaching your therapist search a little like dating. And like with dating, it’s wise to have a phone conversation before you book that first appointment. Photos and websites are great, but you’ll want to get a feel for whom you might be meeting with and later entrusting your deepest thoughts and needs with.

Fortunately, most therapists offer a free phone consultation to determine if it’s a good fit (which of course includes fees and working out scheduling). So once you’ve gotten a few names and are ready to do your due diligence, what do you ask that therapist once you have them on the phone? What is appropriate and what do you say?

First off, before you pick up the phone, it can be helpful to peruse the therapists’ website to check out some basics. Typically you’ll be able to find their fees, check to see if they take your insurance (if you plan to use it), where their office is located, and some background information and specialties they have. Unless they offer a sliding scale, there's not much sense in talking to a therapist who doesn't take insurance and charges $200 if you prefer to use your in-network Anthem with a $20 copay.

Once you have a bit of info and decide to pick up the phone, just know that you shouldn’t have to guide the call! Typically, the therapist will be interested in learning more about you, why you are looking for a therapist, provide you with information and answer your questions.

Questions to Ask a Prospective Psychotherapist during a Phone Consult

Here are some questions you might consider beyond the logistics, when searching for a therapist or psychologist in Santa Monica or elsewhere.

What’s your experience working with someone like me and what is your approach with X problem?
What are your strengths as a therapist?
How often would I be seeing you?
Do you tend to focus on the immediate issue or look to deeper meaning and understanding?
What happens if our therapeutic relationship is stalling or if you think I’m not making progress?
Are you in your own therapy?

#6 may seem a bit odd, but therapists need to work on their own issues and have a deeper understanding of themselves in order to be effective with their clients. I personally would never see a therapist who was not also doing their own work.

Questions to Ask Yourself during a Phone Consult

Regardless of the answers you are getting, focus in on how you feel in relationship with the therapist during the phone call. As you’re moving through, there are some questions you should be asking yourself.

Does it seem like the therapist is listening and genuinely trying to understand your situation?
Does the conversation flow?
Do you feel that you might be able to begin a more extended conversation with this therapist and start to open up?
Is communication by the therapist clear or more cerebral?
*Also, did the therapist respond to your initial call/voicemail in a timely manner?

Just remember that you always have choice in continuing with a therapist after you’ve seen them in person, so don’t get lost in analysis paralysis. Make that first in-person psychotherapy appointment if you feel comfortable on the phone and then proceed from there.

I hope this helps you find the right therapist for YOU. If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call me at (310) 422-8609 for a free 15 minute phone consultation. You can practice the suggestions in this article and I’ll be happy to provide you with guidance if you and I are not the right fit. The most important thing is that you get the help you need!

In my next post, we’ll talk about being a first-timer in therapy and some typical FAQ’s to help prepare you.

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