Reaching out to a therapist for the first time can feel intimidating.
Many people worry about what they should say, whether they need to prepare, or whether they will be expected to explain everything perfectly during the consultation.
Others wonder whether they will know if a therapist is the right fit.
The good news is that a therapy consultation is not a test, and you do not need to have everything figured out before the call.
The purpose of the consultation is simply to determine whether working together feels like the right next step.
What Is a Therapy Consultation?
A consultation is a brief phone call, typically lasting about 15–20 minutes.
It is an opportunity for us to learn a little more about one another and determine whether my approach, experience, and areas of expertise align with what you are looking for.
Unlike a therapy session, the consultation is not intended to be a deep dive into your entire life story. Instead, it is a conversation designed to help us decide whether moving forward makes sense.
What We Talk About
During the consultation, I will ask questions to better understand what brings you to therapy, what you hope to change, and what kind of support you are looking for.
We may talk about your previous experiences with therapy, if any, including what felt helpful and what you would hope to experience differently this time.
I will also answer questions about my approach, the therapy process, scheduling, and other practical considerations.
The conversation is meant to be collaborative and low-pressure. You do not need to have the perfect words or a perfectly organized explanation of why you are reaching out.
You Do Not Need to Prepare
One of the most common misconceptions about therapy consultations is that you need to know exactly what to say.
You don’t.
You do not need a diagnosis. You do not need a detailed timeline of everything that has happened. You do not need to have your goals fully figured out.
During the consultation, I will ask questions to better understand what has been going on, what concerns you most, and what you are hoping to change. The more openly you can share about your experience, the easier it is for me to determine whether I am the right fit for your needs.
You do not need to have everything figured out. You simply need a starting point.
The Consultation Is Also About Fit
The consultation is not only an opportunity for me to learn about you. It is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of me.
I often encourage prospective clients not to accept the first “yes” they hear.
Reach out to multiple therapists. Listen to their voices. Pay attention to how you feel during those conversations. Notice whether you feel comfortable, understood, and able to imagine having meaningful conversations with that person.
The therapeutic relationship matters, and finding someone who feels like a good fit is important.
What Therapy With Me Is Like
People often ask about my therapeutic style.
While every client and situation is different, I strive to create a space that is supportive, collaborative, and genuine.
Therapy can involve difficult conversations, uncomfortable emotions, and meaningful self-reflection. It can also include moments of relief, perspective, and even humor.
Life can be serious enough on its own. When it feels appropriate, there is room for humor, perspective, and acknowledging the absurdity that sometimes comes with being human.
Therapy does not have to feel cold, clinical, or overly formal to be effective.
What Happens Next?
By the end of the consultation, we may decide to move forward with scheduling an intake appointment.
We may also determine that another provider, specialty, or level of care would be a better fit.
During the consultation, I am considering whether your reasons for seeking therapy align with my areas of expertise and whether I can provide an appropriate level of care for your needs.
If I do not believe I am the best fit, I will do my best to help point you in the right direction.
The purpose of the consultation is not to convince anyone to move forward. It is simply to determine whether working together feels like the right next step.
Final Thoughts
Reaching out to a therapist for the first time can feel uncomfortable, especially if you are unsure where to begin.
The consultation is simply an opportunity to start the conversation, ask questions, and determine whether working together feels like a good fit.
You do not need to have everything figured out. You just need a place to start.