What questions should I ask a psychologist?

Basic Questions to Ask a Prospective Therapist

• How long have you been practicing?
• What licenses and certifications do you have and which professional organizations do you belong to?
• How much do you charge?
• How many clients have you had with similar circumstances to my own?
• Describe your ideal patient.

What is ethical violations in psychology?

Psychologists can ethically discontinue treatment when clients aren’t benefiting from therapy, may be harmed by treatment, no longer need therapy or threaten the therapist, themselves or others. In contrast, abandonment occurs when a psychologist inappropriately ends treatment.

Is it OK to ask your therapist personal questions?

As a client, you are allowed to ask your therapist just about anything. And, it is possible that the therapist will not or cannot answer the question for a variety of reasons. Some counselors believe strongly in being a “blank screen” or “mirror” in therapy.

Why don’t people go to see a psychiatrist/psychologist?

They might also, subsequently, charge more, which may be a barrier for some people and a reason they don’t want to see a psychiatrist/psychologist. Psychiatrists, like me, are also the only group that goes to medical school, and as a result, are able to prescribe psychiatric medication.

Is it ever clinically useful to lie to a client?

To my mind, it is never clinically useful to lie to a client. I can’t think of a single instance where it would help a client to be told a falsehood.

Should you ask questions when you find a therapist?

You know you should ask questions—and you have so many questions!—but you’re a little wary of coming on too strong and accidentally saying something inappropriate. The thing is, when it comes to finding a therapist—just like with dating—you deserve to know what you’re getting yourself into.

Do we still see patients for psychotherapy alone?

We still see patients for psychotherapy alone. So don’t be afraid to ask your provider why they chose their specialty and what makes them uniquely suited (or not) to care for you as a patient. You can even ask them this upfront, before your first visit, to make sure you are going to the right person.