First timer question

This is quite possibly a stupid question, but here goes anyway. I've never been in therapy before and I'm looking to start. From everything I've read online, generally the first appointment is kind of a trial where you see if you can work with each other, that sort of thing, before committing to more appointments. Generally, is there a charge for that first appointment? Because I'm thinking I'll have to try a few therapists that way.

I would guess that they all charge for the initial session. Even if you decide not to work with them, it's still a consultation and I imagine that wouldn't change their hourly rate. I was lucky in that I liked the very first therapist I spoke to so never had to interview another. :-) (And yes, I paid him for our first session.)

Best of luck finding a therapist!!!

Sidony

Becca07 - I never thought of interviewing therapists to find the right one. I was kind of a mess when I started and just went to the one I was referred to by employee assistance services therapist. I've been with her ever since - I think 3 years? Interviewing does sound like a good idea though. And yes, they will charge you for the consultation. You could probably ask in advance though before you see them about their personal theory or school of thought as far as therapy and psychology goes. Most of them have something informative they could give you in writing. I don't see why they wouldn't do that before making a consultation appointment.

That makes sense. My biggest concern is really making sure that they specialize in the area I need help - chronic illness - and since that's not hugely common I'm having a bit of trouble finding one. Asking over the phone before I make the first appointment is a good idea, thanks.

Becca,

I contacted several and all agreed to a free quick meet in-person or a 15-20 min phone chat to see how we "fit " together. I ended up liking the first one and we met in person. We had a free phone consult before that for 20 minutes and got to know eachother a little bit. I told her my primary concerns, why I was seeking treatment and she told me a little about who she is and what she does. We then agreed to meet, and I paid for that meeting session in person.

Still though, we BOTH agreed we needed to feel a good chemistry for one another, for therapy to work as it is a very important relationship. I immediately liked her but had reservations anout her age (she's young imo). I was honest about that and laid out all my concerns and she handled them all with ease.

It was a little like an "interview" process the first time. She listend to my "presenting problem" or what I revealed about them anyway and basically told me after I left, to think about it and see if I thought we were a good fit. She told me she would be doing the same thing and we'd touch base to compare notes. She felt it important for me to like her enough to feel comfortable and safe etc. She also wanted to know if she'd be the best person to help me.

Turns out, we are a lovely 'match' and have been going strong for almost 2 years now....

Good luck and remember, it's your time and money and you should take the time you need to see who you feel right with.

The phone interview is a great idea! I bet no one would hesitate to answer a few questions without charging you. You could even write them out beforehand so as not to forget any. I didn't think of anything like that. All I said on the phone was "I'd like to make an appointment" and scheduled a session. I didn't even know what I wanted to say when I went in there and just kind of blathered on about how things weren't working for me. I never thought of asking for a "let's just meet" session either -- I just jumped right on into my problems. :-) But I knew by the end of the interview that I wanted to come back. I bet it'll be obvious to you too when you find the right person. I hope you'll be lucky and won't have to interview a bunch. But even if you do (and even if it ends up being expensive), it will be totally worth it. Therapy is a truly amazing experience in my opinion.

Sidony

Talulah, that sounds like exactly what I'd like to happen. I called my state's psych association which has a referral line, and they suggested a therapist who specializes in chronic illness, but the closest one was in a town 20-30 minutes away, which I'm not thrilled about. So I guess I'm back to cold calling the ones on the list from my insurance.

Many reputable psychologists do not charge a fee for a consultation interview... but ask them to be sure. If you haven't found it yet, there is a list of questions to ask/interview before hiring a T... here on site of PC.

good wishes!

Becca,

I understand that you have transportation issues but you might want to try the one who is 30 minute away. That travel time can be your time to shift from one thing to another. Particularly because that person specializes in the area you are looking for, it might be worth your while to just check them out.

If speciailzing in chronic illesse is your major conciern, that information should be available to you by phone without charge. Also, when contacting some by phone, if they don't specialize in that, you might ask if they know somone who does. Also, your local hospital, surgical association, or pain management centers might know who specializes in chronic illness.

Just some thoughts for you! Good luck to you

Echoes,

Thanks for the suggestions. Asking for a referral if they don't specialize is another good one.

I wouldn't mind the 30 minutes myself, but my feet don't let me drive so I'm relying on someone else for transport, and I wouldn't feel comfortable imposing to that degree. But I can discuss that with the person who would be driving me.

Hello again Becca......

Just another thought about what I did, as I had a 'list' as well.......

Since most don't answer their phones etc, I called a few a numerous times and just listened to their voice on the message. Crazy I know, but that really factored in the decision for me. Perhaps one shouldn't judge this way, but the crotchety ones got crossed off right away and I tended toward the kinder, gentler voices on the other end. Then I left a message...In yur message feel free to express your concern about their area and their ability to help you etc, so you can discuss that upon their return phone call. You may be surprised (i hope) to find some that DO know a bit about the chronic illness.....put it out to them on the phone call.

Good luck Becc