10 Questions to Ask a San Luis Obispo Therapist, Counselor, or Psychologist During A Phone Consultation

San Luis Obispo, California is a great place to live, with many outdoor activities and fantastic weather. I grew up in Arroyo Grande, CA, one of the small towns here in San Luis Obispo County. I love having my private therapy practice in the Village of Arroyo Grande, where I spent so much time as a kid. One drawback to living in a small town is a limited selection when it comes to service options, such as mental health care providers. 

In a previous blog post, I discussed some tips on how to find a few therapists that might be a good match for you. So now you’ve narrowed down your search and have three therapists you’re ready to call for that free phone consultation…. except what are you supposed to say? What questions should you ask? How do you decide who to choose? 

Questions Ask a San Luis Obispo Therapist

Deciding to reach out for support takes a lot of courage.The process of finding the right therapist can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if this is your first time giving therapy a try. 

I’m Andrea Bey, LMFT and I’m here to help you!

Below is a list of questions that are helpful to ask a prospective therapist during your phone consultation":

What types of issues do you work with? 

Some therapists work with a variety of issues and populations, while others specialize in a specific issue, population, or therapy type. 

Do you have experience working with someone who ______ ?

Maybe you just went through a divorce, or you are newly diagnosed with ADHD. Maybe you have chronic pain and you want to work with a therapist who understands your struggle. Knowing that a therapist has experience with what you are going through can be a great place to start your therapeutic relationship. 

What is your background, experience, and training?

This may or may not be important to you. If you want a therapist with a specific type of training, make sure to ask!

What is your cancellation policy?

Some therapists have stricter policies than others. Most therapists have a 24 or 48-hour cancelation policy.

If I need support between sessions, can I contact you? 

If yes- Should I call your office number or a different number?

If no- Where should I go if I need immediate support?

Some therapists are available to take calls after hours, while others are not. Either way, the therapist should be able to provide you with resources should you need immediate support between sessions. 

How often will we typically meet for sessions?

This varies from therapist to therapist. A lot of research shows that weekly sessions are most effective in helping people make progress most efficiently. 

How should I prepare for my first session?

There will likely be a few intake forms to fill out, which the therapist may send to you electronically, or give to you at the beginning of your first session.

Remember, there is no “right” way to engage in therapy. Show up to your first session and try to be yourself. You’ve got this!

How long do you typically work with your clients? 

This varies with each client. However, some therapists are more oriented towards brief therapy, while others may frequently work with clients for several years. 

What’s your fee? 

Therapy is an investment in your long-term health and well-being. I encourage you to make a plan of how you will incorporate this investment into your budget.

Do you take insurance? 

If the therapist doesn’t take insurance ask them if they provide a superbill. A superbill is an itemized list of services that your therapist provided that you can then submit to your health insurance for possible partial reimbursement.

Contact Andrea Bey Therapy in San Luis Obispo Today for a Free Phone Consultation

If you would like my answers to some of the above questions, you can check out my FAQs page by clicking here. 

I hope this helps you feel more prepared and at ease when interviewing potential therapists. If you are in need of additional support please contact me by clicking here or by calling 805-225-4495 for your FREE 15-minute phone consultation.