In this wonderful city of Portland, and its suburbs, you will find hundreds of therapists, right? But how in the world do you find the right one for YOU? Not only do you want someone to help you with your anxiety or relationship struggles, but you want to actually connect with this person and feel comfortable exposing your vulnerabilities. I get it.

So, here’s what you can do — start with an internet search, on a directory like Psychology Today, Therapy Den, or Portland Therapy Center. Pick 5-6 therapist that, at first glance or review of their website, look like a good fit. Perfect. Now it’s time for the consultation. But what do you ask? What should you say? How will you choose?

Specialty Questions to ask a Therapist in Lake Oswego

First, if you are not clear from their website, ask if they specialize in the area for which you are seeking help. If you are struggling with communication in your partnership, ask if they have expertise in family or couple’s counseling. If you are feeling sad and can’t seem to get out of the funk of the last 2 years, ask the therapist if they are trained in depression and anxiety. Sometimes you know what specialty you need, like ADHD, but other times you might need help exploring that with your counselor. That specialty is important, and can also lead you to ask about their general qualifications, such as their education, if they are licensed, and how long they have been practicing — all great information for you to know to help inform your decision.

Financial Questions to ask a therapist in Lake Oswego

Secondly, you might want to ask off the bat, what are their fees, and how are you expected to pay. If you want to use your insurance, ask if they take it, or if they do not take insurance, what is their hourly fee (a therapy “hour” is 45-50 minutes)? The frequency of sessions is also something to ask about, so that you know how many sessions per month you can budget your time and finances for. Make sure to ask or note what their policy is on charging for “no shows” and late cancellations.

Therapy Approach Questions to ask a therapist in Lake Oswego

Ask your potential therapist about their approach to therapy. There are many types of therapy such as Gottman Couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, just to name a few. You don’t have to fully understand the therapist’s theory, but it is important to understand how their theory will help you in your counseling bring about the changes that you desire! Have them explain this to you — it will provide great information for you and you will also get to know how it will feel to work with them in a session.

General Worldview and Connection in finding a therapist in Lake Oswego

Ask any question that you feel will help you know if you and this counselor will be a good fit. Or just pay attention to their interaction with you — their style, their warmth, their concern for you, their expertise and their ability to help you feel comfortable. Some people like more structure and want formal assessments; others want someone with a sense of humor, and still others might want a religious affiliation. So ask whatever you feel will help you evaluate the potential connection. Most therapists will say that FIT between you and your therapist is the key to great outcomes in therapy!

Questions are key to finding the right therapist in Lake Oswego

So asking in-depth questions of a potential therapist is the key to finding the best fit for you! It’s a big decision to find a therapist that you feel comfortable to share your thoughts, feelings, and history with, so take your time and do what you need to do to make a good decision for yourself.

I hope these questions help you find the right therapist in Lake Oswego and the surrounding Portland area. If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call me at (503) 327-6971 or go to my contact page for a free 20-minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to hear about what is happening and help direct you to the right person. If you are looking for help in your relationships, or you are struggling with life balance, anxiety or specifically ADHD, you can read more about how I can help here.