Finding a mental health professional that’s a good fit for you is a process. These questions may assist you in that process. Take good notes as you interview someone so you can compare answers from different providers. Keeping a spreadsheet of who you contacted and their responses might be helpful. Talk to two or three providers to see how you like them. Providers understand you will shop for a good fit. If your first choice doesn’t have availability you can easily refer back to the information to select another provider. If you find after a visit or two that they are not a good fit for you don’t be afraid to try someone new. If there is a provider you’d really like to try who does not have availability, contact them to ask if you can be put on a waiting list.

Provider expertise questions

• What does a therapy session with you look like?
• Do you have experience dealing with [my specific issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, etc.]
• Are there certain populations that you prefer to work with / are more comfortable with / have the most experience with?
• Have you worked with clients in the entertainment industry?
• How collaborative are you with other providers such as psychiatrists?
• Can you prescribe medications?
• Can you diagnose issues like ADHD or autism?
• Will you do couples or family therapy?
• If this is not the right match, what is the process for ending this relationship?

Scheduling questions

• Are you available evenings and weekends?
• Do you offer telehealth?
• How flexible are you in scheduling? What happens if I get called in to work at the last minute?
• If I am traveling for work will you see me if I am in a different state?

Fee questions

• What are your fees?
• Do you accept my insurance which is [name of insurance plan]?
• Will you work on a sliding scale?
• How do I pay you?
• Do you offer a free initial consultation? How long is it?

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