Questions to Ask a Therapist During a Free Consultation Call
By Growth Era Counseling & Wellness
Taking the first step into therapy can feel overwhelming — especially when you're not sure what to ask.
Maybe you've searched therapists near me and found someone who looks like a good fit. You see they offer a free consultation call, but now you’re staring at the phone wondering:
What do I even say?
What questions should I ask?
How will I know if this therapist is the right one for me?
At Growth Era Counseling & Wellness, we know how important this first call can be. It’s your chance to get a feel for the therapist, ask practical questions, and decide whether you'd feel comfortable opening up in a full session.
Here’s a helpful guide to make that 15–20 minute consultation less intimidating — and more empowering.
Why Consultation Calls Matter
Consultation calls are not therapy sessions — they’re brief, informal conversations to help both you and the therapist decide if it’s a good fit. Think of it like a mutual interview:
You’re learning about them
They’re learning about your needs and goals
You both want to make sure it feels like the right match
Your comfort and connection with your therapist will play a big role in the success of your therapy experience — so asking the right questions matters.
10 Helpful Questions to Ask Your Therapist During a Consultation
These questions are designed to help you explore compatibility, approach, and logistics — without pressure to say yes right away.
1. What experience do you have with [your concern]?
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, identity work, or burnout — ask if they regularly work with clients facing similar issues.
2. What’s your therapeutic approach or style?
Some therapists are more structured (like CBT), others are insight-oriented or relational. You might ask:
“Do you tend to be more solution-focused or exploratory?”
“What does a typical session with you feel like?”
3. How do you create a safe space for clients?
Especially if you’ve experienced trauma or marginalization, this question helps you get a sense of their values and ability to hold space with compassion and inclusion.
At Growth Era Counseling & Wellness, we prioritize trauma-informed, affirming care that honors your full identity and lived experience.
4. What can I expect from the first few sessions?
This helps you understand how they approach the beginning of the therapeutic relationship. Some therapists start with intake and goal-setting; others ease into the deeper work more organically.
5. How do you measure progress in therapy?
Therapy isn’t always linear, but it’s fair to ask how a therapist tracks growth. Their answer might include regular check-ins, collaborative goal-setting, or adapting sessions as needed.
6. Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions (or both)?
Make sure their format aligns with your schedule and needs — and ask about flexibility if you’re balancing parenting, work, or health concerns.
7. What is your availability like?
Ask when they typically see clients — evenings, weekends, specific days — and whether they’re accepting new clients consistently or have a waitlist.
8. What are your fees, and do you take insurance?
Get clarity on:
Session rates
Sliding scale availability
Out-of-network billing or superbills
Cancelation policies
Being clear on finances can prevent future stress.
9. Have you worked with clients from [your background or identity]?
If cultural understanding, LGBTQ+ affirming care, or disability awareness is important to you (and it is for many clients), ask about their experience with your community.
10. How do I know if we’re a good fit — and what if we’re not?
This shows you care about connection and also gives insight into their values. A good therapist will be honest and will respect your need to find the right person — even if it isn’t them.
Bonus Tip: Pay Attention to How You Feel
What’s most important isn’t just what they say — but how you feel during the call.
Ask yourself:
Did I feel heard and respected?
Did they speak in a way that felt human and clear?
Do I feel safe enough to explore more in a full session?
Your Questions Are Welcome Here
At Growth Era Counseling & Wellness, we offer free 15–20 minute consultation calls with no pressure or commitment. We believe every person deserves a therapist who truly sees them, hears them, and honors their unique healing journey.
Whether you're brand new to therapy or looking for a better fit, we’re happy to answer your questions — and help you feel more confident taking the next step.
Ready to talk to someone who gets it?
Schedule a free consultation today!
Learn more about our therapists and approach
You don’t have to figure it all out today.
Just start by asking one question. We’ll take it from there — together.