10 Questions Frum People Should Ask Before Starting Therapy

You might not have known this, but going to therapy is like getting involved in a relationship. 

Like all good relationships, you want to make sure it’s productive and healthy. Unlike all good relationships, though, therapy shouldn’t be a forever-thing. In therapy, a goal should be set and worked toward. 

To ensure you have a healthy, productive, and goal-driven therapeutic relationship, you should ask questions that help you clarify what you’re looking to get out of therapy. Broadly, these questions fall into two categories. First questions to ask your therapist, and second, questions to ask yourself when looking for a therapist. 

The first thing to do is to ask your therapist what their qualifications are, and what modality(ies) they are trained in. 

While asking these questions may feel uncomfortable or out of place, they are actually just assurances that you’ll receive the very best treatment for you. After all, a key component in every good relationship is trust, and by asking questions, you get to build that quality by getting to know a person better. Similarly, understanding your therapist’s qualifications is a way of getting to know them better and building that client-therapist trust known as the therapeutic alliance. 

Examples of such questions are: 

• Where did you get your degree?

• Are you licensed?

• Where are you licensed to practice?

• Do you have experience in treating what I am coming to treatment for?

Now, in order to ask this last question, you must first have an understanding what you need before going to therapy. 

In this case, it is important to ask yourself:

• Am I clear on why I’m beginning therapy and hoping to get out of it? 

• What are my short- and long-term goals?

• Are there core features I’m looking for in a therapist?

If you have already met your therapist and are unsure if they are a good fit for you, ask yourself:

• Do they align with my hashkafic fit?

• Can they help me with my therapeutic goals?

• Do I feel I have the potential to establish a connection with them?

After all, even if you don't immediately feel a connection with your therapist, it doesn't mean they aren't the right one to treat you. Just as you might not see fireworks when you know someone is the right person for you, you may not feel an instant connection with your therapist. What you should feel, though, is a potential for growth and productivity with them, which is important in helping you reach your therapeutic goals.

Still feeling unsure and want more guidance? Our Before Therapy course provides valuable information to help you make smart, empowered decisions about therapy and mental health care, and might be just the thing you’re looking for. 

Click here to find out more!