Interview questions to ask your potential therapist

As you begin your journey towards healing and recovery, having open and honest communication with your trauma therapist is crucial. Here are some essential questions to ask during your initial consultation:

1. What experience do you have in treating trauma?

• Be sure to as them about their specific qualifications, training, and experience in trauma therapy. Specifically, their experience working with trauma survivors, particularly the type of trauma you have experienced. This will help you gauge their expertise and ensure they have the necessary skills to support you effectively.

• Understanding their qualifications and training in trauma therapy is crucial, as it can give you confidence in their ability to guide you through the healing process. It might sometimes feel odd to ask, but I encourage you to ask!

2. What therapeutic approaches or modalities do you utilize in trauma treatment?

• Different therapists may have various approaches to trauma therapy, such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic experiencing, or narrative therapy. Understanding their preferred methods will aid in determining if they align with your needs and preferences.

  • You may not know what you prefer either, which is OK! Be sure to ask them if they are willing to adjust through your time to an alternate modality.

3. How do you create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment?

• It is crucial to establish a safe atmosphere in therapy, especially for trauma survivors. Ask your potential therapist how they prioritize your comfort, emotional safety, and consent during sessions. Discuss any concerns you may have regarding potential triggers or boundaries.

  • You may even be unaware of what your potential triggers are. Be sure to have conversations with your therapist candidate around how they approach a client who has become activated.

4. What is your approach when working with trauma-related dissociation or flashbacks?

• Trauma can often manifest in dissociation or flashbacks. Understanding how your therapist addresses these experiences and supports you in coping with them is essential. Be sure to ask them about their strategies for grounding techniques and managing distressing symptoms.

5. What are your thoughts on medication and its role in trauma therapy?

• While therapy alone can be effective, medication may also play a role in managing trauma-related symptoms. Discuss with your therapist their perspective on the use of medication and whether they collaborate with psychiatrists or medical professionals if needed.

6. How do you adapt therapy to meet individual needs and cultural considerations?

• Every person's experience of trauma is unique, and cultural factors can significantly impact the healing process. Ask your therapist about their approach to cultural sensitivity and their willingness to adapt their techniques to accommodate your individual needs and beliefs.

7. How do you maintain confidentiality and ensure clients' privacy and their safety?

• Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy, but it is important to be clear about how your potential therapist maintains privacy and handles any necessary disclosures. Inquire about their policies regarding confidentiality and any limitations to privacy that may exist legally or ethically.

• It is also important to understand their protocols as it relates to safety concerns, especially if you are participating in a therapeutic relationship that is all virtual.

8. What is your availability and scheduling options?

• Consistency and regularity in therapy sessions can impact your progress. Inquire about any upcoming travel plans your therapist may have, or, share your own you may have that could hinder your consistency in therapy.

• Getting a clearer picture with your therapist surrounding your scheduling commitment is key.

Remember, these questions serve as a starting point for creating an open dialogue with your potential trauma therapist. Developing a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, understanding, and shared goals will empower you to navigate your healing journey more effectively.

I hope these guiding questions allow for you to meet with your potential therapists and get a better understanding of who will serve you and your trauma healing journey best.