7 Questions When Looking for a Counselor

This is the first 4 of 7 Questions to Help You

Part 1 of a 2-Part Find the Right Counselor Series

Are you are considering starting counseling? If so, you may be asking yourself, “Where do I start?” I remember pondering this question the first time I felt the need for support from an outside source. Should I talk to my parents? Ask a friend? Will my insurance pay for it? How many sessions will I need? Do I really need it? These are all valid and important questions. At times, it can feel overwhelming to have to make decisions about counseling when you are already struggling with depression, anxiety, fear, or a broken relationship. That is why I wanted to take the time to write out what I have found to be the most helpful questions to ask when looking into counseling. I often get inquiries from potential clients who are feeling lost as they face the prospect of setting up a first appointment. It can take a lot of courage to send that initial email and admit a need for help. My hope is that the following information will provide a helpful guide as you or someone you love takes that first step towards health and wholeness.

1. Do I Need to Use Insurance? How Will I Pay?

Throughout my time as a counselor, one of the biggest obstacles I have found for people coming to counseling is funding. Counseling involves an emotional, mental, and financial commitment, and without the support of family or insurance, it can become a challenge to afford weekly sessions. As a counselor, I have been humbled by the number of clients who diligently set aside financial resources for the benefit of their mental and emotional health. While not everyone is able to pay out of pocket for counseling, it is important to understand your options before jumping into a counseling relationship and getting stuck with an overwhelming bill you thought your insurance would pay. I always suggest that clients contact their insurance provider to see if they have mental health coverage. If the answer is yes, you will want to know whether you have to see an “in-network” provider in order to receive reimbursement. If you are not planning to use insurance, or if your insurance provider will cover “out-of-network” providers, you can choose from a wide range of counselors. Consistency in the therapeutic relationship is critical, which is why it is important to understand your financial capacities beforehand. Many organizations, including Seattle Christian Counseling, offer sliding scale fees for a certain number of clients. This can provide a helpful break for those individuals who want to see a specific counselor but cannot afford the full fee.

2. Do I Know Someone with a Personal Recommendation?

I always love hearing that new clients have found me through my past or current clients. These can be some of the best connections to make and often lead to meaningful and fruitful therapeutic relationships. When looking for a counselor, I always suggest checking with close friends and family for personal recommendations. You may be surprised who might have a suggestion or a story to tell about their own counseling experience. Knowing that a dear friend or family member felt safe with a specific counselor may ease your anxiety as you go into the first session. And although you may feel vulnerable sharing your pursuit of a counselor with others, it will most likely be met with understanding, encouragement, and compassion.

3. My Goals for Counseling?

Everyone comes to counseling with their own set of expectations and hopes. Friends may have told you that counseling is a great place to process your feelings, share whatever you are thinking, and relieve some of the pressure that builds up throughout daily life. Knowing your own goals before coming to counseling can be beneficial, not only for your own clarification but also for your future counselor. I always ask clients in our first session what their goals are for the counseling process. This allows me to get a good idea of what they expect from counseling, from me as the therapist, and from themselves in the growing process. So, before picking up the phone or sending an initial email, try sitting down and processing exactly what you hope will come of your time in counseling.

4. Do I Have a Preference Regarding Gender, Specialty, or Faith Background?

When thinking about meeting weekly with a counselor to discuss your current struggles, would you be more comfortable with a male or female counselor? For many people the gender of their counselor doesn’t make a difference, but for others it can be an influential part of the counseling process. Also, if you are struggling with a specific disorder, addiction, or diagnosis, I would encourage you to look for a counselor who specializes in your specific needs. For example, if you are struggling with an addiction, I would suggest looking for a counselor with CDP credentials (Certified Dependency Counselor). And although most counselors can incorporate the client’s belief system into the therapeutic work, some clients find it important that their counselor come from a similar faith background. For some clients, this might mean praying together before each session, while for others they simply want to know their counselor holds the same beliefs as they do. All of these factors can play a part in the process of choosing the right counselor for you.

Christian Counseling as a Resource for You

In my following article, I will discuss the remaining questions that can be helpful for you as you consider counseling. As a Christian counselor, I have been privileged to see the how the counseling process can support a wide variety of people in their struggles, advocate their growth, and encourage their new life.