In this article
We’ve all seen the pop-culture references to therapy in various movies and books. But what is it like in real-life? Because there are so many different types of therapy, there isn’t necessarily a catch-all definition. So, what is therapy? Generally speaking, according to the American Psychological Association (APA), “therapy is the application of research-based techniques to help people form better habits.”
If you’ve been considering going to therapy, there are a few questions to ask a therapist before you dive in head first. Getting answers to questions about their therapy methods, their fee breakdowns, and their treatment schedules will allow you to feel comfortable and confident in beginning your therapy journey.
When to seek a therapist
Therapy is something that will help when you actively participate in it to change things that are holding you back from living a healthy, happy life. If you’re feeling like you aren’t living life to the fullest or if intrusive thoughts or worries are interfering with your ability to function, it’s time to ask for help.
“I said ‘I'm fine’ more times than my son asks for snacks in a day. I pushed through feelings of unease because… well, I thought I had to,” mom Tonilyn H. previously told Mom.com. “I was overtasking and managing all the things.”
If it’s your first time seeking a therapist, don’t worry if you don’t hit it out of the park with the first provider you meet. When you’re seeking therapy, your first meeting with your therapist will be all about getting to know you and finding out what you want to get out of therapy.
“A good therapist should ask you questions that help you reflect on your experiences in a healthy way,” psychotherapist Amy Morin told Today.com.
If you are not able to get to a therapist’s office, or have trepidations about meeting with someone in person, online therapy is a viable option. “Being able to have someone I could check in with daily was actually super helpful, even if it was online,” mom of two Wendy Wisner wrote for Mom.com, about seeking treatment for her anxiety. “Every other therapist I’d had in the past I only met with once per week. This type of therapy really felt like a lifeline — and I needed it.”
Psychologist vs. therapist: What’s the difference?
When it comes to the difference between a psychologist versus a therapist, there are similarities, but these two professionals are not exactly the same. Their formal education might seem similar, but their approach to treatment is what sets them apart.
Psychologist
A psychologist’s role is to observe and diagnose. They take a more formal approach using research and academic literature.
Therapist
A therapist's approach might feel a bit more informal. While their questions and conversations are based on the same knowledge as a psychologist, there is more discussion versus observation.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist has a similar approach and training as a psychologist, but they are an M.D., so they can write prescriptions. They also tend to specialize in more complex mental health disorders and illnesses.
Finding a good fit: Questions to ask a therapist
Even before you book your first appointment, there are a few questions to ask a prospective therapist.
What is your professional background?
As mentioned, different levels of counselors, therapists, and psychologists have different levels of education and training. Determining the type of support you’re looking for will help you find the right provider with the right background.
What type of therapy methods and treatments can I expect?
Depending on what type of help you are looking for, questions to ask your therapist should include how the sessions are conducted. Do they only offer face-to-face? Or are they virtual? Or perhaps there is a hybrid option for people who need more flexibility.
What are your fees and payment structure?
Many mental health providers have different fees based on where you are in your treatment. For example, the fee for your initial assessment will likely be different than for your subsequent sessions.
How often will we be meeting?
Confirming with your provider how often you’ll be expected to see them for treatment will allow you to plan accordingly.
How flexible are you for rescheduling appointments?
Even when you plan ahead, life has a way of throwing a wrench into things now and again. So make sure to confirm with your provider what other fees might come along with any scheduling conflicts that arise. If, for any reason, you have to make a last-minute cancellation, will you still be charged for the session?
Double-check and keep a copy of the cancellation and rescheduling policies, because unfortunately many providers will still charge you for a missed or canceled session within less than 24 hours. And what’s worse, your insurance likely won’t cover that, either.
