10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Therapist

The most crucial component in determining the success of therapy is having a solid rapport with the therapist. The therapist should have official education, qualifications, and state licensing. In general, the therapist should be able to articulate the advantages and disadvantages of various types of treatment, even those that he or she does not provide. Additionally, the therapist should explain how he or she will track your development. Explore the following questions as you consider choosing a therapist: 

What training do you have (i.e., what certifications or degrees do you hold)? 

How long have you been in this profession? 

What types of treatment or therapy do you believe could be beneficial to me? 

What are the benefits and drawbacks of various techniques, including medication? 

How is the treatment administered? 

What are the treatment's odds of success?

How quickly should I begin to feel better? 

How will my progress be evaluated? 

What should I do if my condition does not improve? 

What will the cost of treatment be?

These are not always straightforward questions to answer, and the therapist may not be able to definitively respond to all of them. By taking note of the therapist's comments, you should be able to determine whether you will be able to build a productive working relationship. Understanding Depression, a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School, contains additional information on fighting depression.

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