Questions to Ask When Meeting a Potential Therapist

Your guide to finding the right fit on your journey toward healing

Did you know that the relationship between therapist and client is one of the strongest predictors of successful outcomes in therapy? That means finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s essential. But if you’ve ever typed “find therapist near me” into Google and felt overwhelmed by the results, you’re not alone.

Choosing someone to open up to about your deepest struggles can feel intimidating. How do you know who’s qualified? Who’s trustworthy? Who will actually get you?

This guide is here to help. Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, relationship issues, or simply looking for personal growth, asking the right questions during your first meeting with a therapist can lead to clarity, confidence, and a solid path forward.

Let’s dive into the key questions to ask – so you can make your mental health a priority with the right partner by your side.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Therapy is deeply personal. It involves vulnerability, trust, and consistent effort. But not every therapist will be the right fit for your personality, history, or goals.

Here’s why asking questions up front is a game-changer:

• It builds confidence. Instead of wondering if a therapist is the right choice, you'll leave your first meeting with clarity.
• It sets expectations. You’ll better understand how therapy will look and feel.
• It gives you agency. You’re not passively accepting help – you’re actively choosing support that aligns with your needs.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a starting point.

1. “What experience do you have with my concerns?”

Not all therapists specialize in the same areas. Someone who excels in trauma therapy may not be the best fit for relationship counseling or career-related stress.

Be specific. If you're struggling with anxiety, say so. If you're working through past trauma, ask directly if the therapist has experience in trauma-focused approaches like EMDR or somatic therapy.

Why this matters:

This question ensures you're not just choosing a generalist but someone equipped to walk alongside your unique journey.

2. “What does a typical session with you look like?”

This question can ease your nerves if you’re unsure what to expect from therapy. Some therapists lean more conversational, others more structured with homework or exercises.

Ask about the format:

• Do sessions follow a consistent flow?
• Will there be goal-setting and check-ins?
• Is homework a part of the process?

Why this matters:

It helps you decide if the therapist’s style complements how you think, feel, and process information.

3. “What approaches or techniques do you use?”

This question opens the door to understanding their therapeutic philosophy. Do they use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)? Do they integrate mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, or trauma-informed care?

If you’ve researched therapy styles or had past experiences, now’s the time to share what worked – or didn’t – for you.

Why this matters:

It gives you insight into how they’ll help you make progress – and whether that aligns with how you naturally work through challenges.

4. “How do you measure progress?”

Healing isn’t always linear, and change can be subtle. Some therapists track progress with tools or assessments, while others rely on session-by-session feedback.

Ask:

• How will I know if I’m improving?
• What if I feel stuck?

Why this matters:

It sets the stage for open communication and reinforces that growth is the goal – not perfection.

5. “Have you worked with clients from my background?”

Cultural understanding, religious values, identity, and lived experience all impact therapy. Ask whether the therapist has experience working with clients from similar cultural, racial, or faith backgrounds if that’s important to you.

This includes:

• LGBTQIA+ inclusivity
• Faith-based counseling
• Racial or cultural sensitivity

Why this matters:

Feeling seen and understood is essential. A therapist who honors your context can offer a safer, more empowering space.

6. “What is your availability, and do you offer virtual sessions?”

Life is busy. Finding a therapist whose schedule matches yours increases the likelihood of sticking with therapy. Also, confirm whether they offer in-person, online, or hybrid options – especially if flexibility matters to you.

Why this matters:

Logistics shouldn’t be a barrier to your healing. Make sure the therapist’s availability fits your reality.

7. “What are your fees, and do you take insurance?”

Let’s talk money – because it matters. Ask about:

• Session costs
• Sliding scale options
• Accepted insurance providers
• Cancellation policies

And if you're unsure about the financial side, don't hesitate to ask for help understanding your options.

Why this matters:

Peace of mind about affordability allows you to focus on the work – not the worry.

8. “What happens if I feel therapy isn’t working?”

This is a powerful question – and a mature one. It lets the therapist know that you’re invested and want to collaborate if things feel stuck.

Good therapists won’t take offense. In fact, they’ll appreciate your honesty and openness to reassess goals, styles, or even refer you to someone else if needed.

Why this matters:

Therapy should be a safe space for feedback, discomfort, and growth. This question sets the tone for trust.

9. “How do you handle emergencies or crisis situations?”

Therapy typically isn’t a crisis response tool – but it’s good to know what your therapist can or can’t do in an emergency.

Ask:

• What should I do if I feel unsafe?
• Do you offer after-hours support?

Why this matters:

Knowing what to expect in a crisis creates safety and ensures you have the right resources in place when needed.

10. “What’s your policy on confidentiality?”

Therapy is built on trust. Everything you share should be confidential – with a few legal exceptions (like risk of harm to self or others).

Ask for clarity on:

• What’s kept private
• When confidentiality must be broken
• Whether sessions are recorded (especially in online formats)

Why this matters:

It reinforces your safety and empowers you to speak freely, knowing your privacy is protected.

A Bonus Question: “Why did you become a therapist?”

This question invites a human moment. It allows the therapist to share what drives their work – and gives you a glimpse of their heart.

Why this matters:

At the end of the day, you’re not just choosing credentials. You’re choosing a relationship. You deserve one grounded in empathy, care, and purpose.

Start Your Search with Confidence

The path to emotional healing begins with connection – and it’s okay to take your time finding the right fit. Asking thoughtful questions puts you in the driver’s seat and helps you build trust from day one.

If you're ready to take that next step, book a free discovery call with one of our trusted therapists. Not quite there yet? Subscribe for weekly mental health tips and get the support you need – right in your inbox.

Your story matters. Let’s find the person who can help you rewrite it – together.

Helpful Resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness – How to Choose a Therapist
• American Psychological Association – Understanding Psychotherapy

Need someone who gets it?
Find a therapist near you today at www.counselor.fit – because you don’t have to do this alone.