Nervous to Book a Consultation Call with a Therapist? Here’s what you can do and what to expect
Introduction
You’ve realized you might need therapy, you start the search for a therapist that might help you out, but you start feeling nervous about the 1st call. Good news, this is totally normal. I remember my first time looking for a therapist, and let me tell you the nerves we’re unreal.
It’s totally normal to feel anxious before a therapy consultation even if it isn’t your 1st time. But don’t owrry there are steps to help you reduce some of those fears.
Why Feeling Nervous is Normal
Why you feel nervous? Well it could be for various reasons. Maybe you are unsure about how it will go, unsure about if the therapist will be nice, unsure how you will handle if you don’t think its a good fit, unsure about what questions to ask. Basically its the fear of the unknown. The good thing is its just a call, and if it gets bad just hang up! You got nothing to lose, but you might gain a great therapist.
Another common problem is the stigma of therapy. If it’s your first time in therapy, congrats on taking the first step! Maybe you’ve been raised to believe therapy is only for people with serious issues. Truth is, therapy is great for any life challenges, big and small.
Preparing for the Consultation Call
Choosing the Right Therapist:
Online Therapy Platforms: Psychology Today, Therapy Den, Zoc Doc, LatinxTherapy are just a few places you can find a therpist. Many of these platforms allow you to narrow down results by specialties, gender of therapist, specific types of therapy, virtual, in person, and insurance type.
Insurance: If you plan to use insurance, you can search through certain platforms such as Alma, or do a google search of therapists that take your insurance
Recommendations: You can also turn to friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations on therapists.
Setting Expectations:
What to Expect: Usually you can email or book a call with a therapist. Some therapist offer free calls 15-20 min. The therapist will call you and introduce themselves, and ask questions to make sure you are a goof fit as a client. The therapist might give you information about cost, insurances, and availability to meet. And if the therapist feels confident in working with you, they will offer you an appointment.
Figuring out if they make you feel comfortable. Do you like a therapist that is direct, no bullshit. Do you prefer someone that just validates your experience. Do you want someone that is structured, or less structured and more go with the flow. Do you want a therapist that gives homework or things to try outside of sessions.
Questions to Ask: Here are some examples of questions that mights be helpful to ask:
1. What is your therapeutic approach? (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, etc.)
2. How long have you been practicing therapy?
3. What kind of clients do you typically work with?
4. Have you worked with clients facing similar issues to mine?
5. How often are sessions typically scheduled?
6. What is the typical length of a session?
Preparing Yourself:
Comfortable Setting: Make your call as comfortable as possible finding a quiet, private space for the call. Maybe bring a paper and pen to write down any important information. If you plan to use insurance, make sure to have your information ready.
Mindfulness Techniques: Try a relaxation exersise before your call to calm your nerves. Here’s a 3 min video from Youtube you can try.
Tips for a Successful Consultation Call
Be Yourself: Be authentic and open. You can share any fears you might have, what works for you and what doesn’t.
Ask Questions: Ask any questions you might have to clarify doubts. Don’t worry if you think your questions are dumb, most likely they are not. If you forget to ask a questions, no problem follow up with an email.
Don't Overthink: Focus on the present moment, the call will be short and over before you know it.
Conclusion
Again, if you feel anxious about the call, it’s totally normal, most people do. Remind yourself what you might gain through therapy, the reasons that led you to start your search, and be brave! And if it doesn’t go as planned, try again another time.
If you are interested in booking a call with me or need help finding someone else, message me now!
