9 Questions You Should Ask Your Psychologist

Have you ever been to a psychologist? If you have never been to one, there are a few things you should ask before you begin therapy. When it comes to therapy you are buying a service. As a consumer, it is important to be aware of all the items associated with becoming a client/patient. All therapists are different and you should find one that matches your needs.
These questions can enhance engagement with your therapist. It can also enhance the therapeutic alliance.

1) What is your therapeutic approach?

There are many approaches to therapy. Some prefer a behavioral approach, which others use a psychoanalytic approach. The importance to know what approach they use is for you to understand their solution approach to your situation. For example, depression is treated differently depending on the therapeutic approach.

2) How does your approach work?

Some therapeutic approaches are more efficient than others. It all depends on three factors: the patient, the therapist and the diagnosis. You may say, “Well those factors cover everything.” And you are correct. Those three factors are critical for a great therapeutic alliance. Finding someone that can understand and help you is critical.

3) How many of your clients/patients improve or get worse?

Like any other treatment, there are always risks. Therapy is no different. When I was with patients seeking couples therapy, I used to tell them that separation could be one of the byproducts of therapy. It’s important for you to know what are all the possible resolutions from seeking therapy.

4) How long will it take?

The length of treatment is dependent on diagnosis, your condition and treatment compliance. Therapy is not easy. There are conditions that can be treated with just a few sessions. Other times, it may require longer treatments. My advice is to understand the level of commitment in order to solve your condition. Full disclosure, I am not a proponent of endless therapy. Therapists must be efficient in helping patients. This leads me to the next question.

5) What should I do if I feel therapy is not working?

As previously stated, therapists must be efficient in helping patients. There are times that progress is not being made. You must be able to communicate this with your psychologist. This will help change the approach or at times referral. For the benefit of the patient and psychologist, candid and open communication will save a lot of time and money. Above all, you will be able to get the necessary help you are seeking.

6) What is your approach with medication?

Not all psychologists are open to medication. Likewise, not all patients are open medication. Understanding each other’s perspective and reasoning can help the approach to treatment. Research supports that medication and therapy are more effective than either one alone.

7) What kinds of records do you keep and who has access to them?

Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 or HIPAA, your medical records must comply with appropriate safeguarding. Additionally the American Psychological Association (APA) enforces compliance through their ethical principles and code of conduct (Standard 4 and 6.01 . As a client/patient be aware of how your records are kept and who has access to them. Bottom line, know your rights.

8- What is your training and experience?

This information can be obtained prior to your first visit. Some psychologists provide this information in their office brochures. Other times, you may need to ask them. But why ask this question? If you are an adult, you want a psychologist experienced with treating adults. You want a psychologist that is aware of cultural diversity and experienced with your type of situation.

9) If you are not available, who I can talk to?

Depending on how critical your situation is, you might want to have a fall back plan. Your psychologist can also provide you with local clinics that are open 24 hours. What’s important is that you have a plan in case of a crisis. Your psychologist will be able to guide you in developing a plan.
I hope these questions will assist you in the search of a psychologist that can help you. But these are not the only questions that you can ask. With that in mind, I have compiled more questions on a file which you can download here “More Questions to ask your therapist“.