Erica Goos, MAC

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Finding A Therapist | What To Expect | Terminology | FAQ
 
Nikolai: “If only I could find the answers to my three questions, then I would always know what to do: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? Who is the right thing to do?

Leo the Turtle: “Remember then that there is only one important time, and that time is now. The most important one is always the one you are with. And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side. For these, my dear boy, are the answers to what is most important in this world. This is why we are here.”
 
Children’s book: The Three Questions based on a story by Leo Tolstoy
Finding a Therapist:
With so many therapists to choose from, how do you pick the one who will best fit your needs?  I recommend by getting referrals from people with whom you trust (i.e. friends, family members, coworkers, physicians, etc).  Choose a couple of therapists to compare and arrange a time to meet with them.  Most therapists will offer an initial 30 minute “meet and greet” session to potential clients.  This initial session is an opportunity to talk about the issues you want to address in therapy and to ask questions of the therapist.

Here are some questions to ask any therapist:
    What do you believe about human nature? (see Therapeutic Approach)
    What approach/approaches influence your therapy? (see Therapeutic Approach)
    What is crucial for change to occur? (see Therapeutic Approach)
    What is your role as the therapist? (see Therapeutic Approach)
    What brought you to a career as a therapist? (see About Me)

Other important questions to consider after talking with the therapist:
    Did I feel safe talking to the therapist?
    Did the therapist seem comfortable in answering my questions and could they relate to the issues I presented?
    Do I feel the therapist is professional and reliable?
    For the issues I want to address, do I need a male or female therapist?
    Does the therapist have areas of expertise?  What kind of professional credentials does the therapist have?
    Is it important the therapist takes my medical insurance?
    Does the therapist have hours which accommodate my schedule?