4 Questions Everyone Should Ask When Interviewing Therapists

Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is as powerful, if not more powerful, than any particular treatment method. Interviewing multiple clinicians to find the best fit for you is part of the process. Below are 4 key questions to ask yourself during these interviews, and under each one is a list of supporting questions to ask the therapist directly.

1. What is Their Clinical Approach?

Understanding a therapist’s approach to therapy is essential. These questions will give you insight into how they work and what you can expect from your sessions:

• What’s Your Clinical Methodology?

  • Do they use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, somatic techniques, or something else? Make sure their methods match what you’re looking for.

• What Determines What We Talk About Each Week?

  • Will you drive the topics, or will they guide the conversation? It’s helpful to know how structured or free-flowing the sessions will be.

• How Much Will We Explore the Past vs. Stay in the Present?

  • Some therapies focus more on the past (childhood, trauma) while others are more present-focused. Where does your therapist stand?

• How Active Are You in Sessions?

  • Does the therapist do a lot of talking, or are they more of a listener? It’s important to understand their level of involvement during sessions.

• Do You Actively Pursue Client Details, or Take a Passive Approach?

  • How much do they dig into your emotions and secrets? Some therapists take a more direct approach, while others let you bring things up at your own pace.

2. How Well Does the Therapist Know Themselves?

You want a therapist who has done their own inner work and understands their own strengths and limitations. These questions can help you assess that:

• Are You Feelings-First or Thinking-First?

  • Do they approach therapy from an emotional perspective, or do they focus more on thoughts and logic? This can influence how they respond to your needs.

• Who Should Not Hire You?

  • Every therapist has their limits. This question helps identify when they might not be the right fit for you—and shows self-awareness.

• What’s Your Blind Spot?

  • Everyone has blind spots. A therapist who is open about where they struggle demonstrates humility and transparency.

• What Are Your Values?

  • Understanding their personal and professional values can help you see if they align with your own, creating a stronger connection.

• What’s Your Professional Background?

  • Is this their first or second career? How did they choose their specific license (LMFT, LPCC, PsyD, etc.)? This gives you context for their experience and commitment.

3. How Does This Therapist Stretch Themselves?

Therapists should be continuously growing and learning, just like their clients. Here are some questions to explore how they stay sharp in their field:

• How Do You Stay Fresh in Your Field?

  • Do they attend workshops, take continuing education, or engage in supervision? Their growth matters for your progress.

• What’s a Book You’ve Read Recently?

  • This reveals what areas they are currently studying or interested in, helping you see how up-to-date they are with new ideas.

• How Does Technology Play a Role in Your Practice?

  • From teletherapy to new therapeutic tools, ask how they use technology to enhance their methods and stay current.

• How Do You Collaborate with Referrals?

  • If you might need a psychiatrist or other specialists, find out how they manage referrals to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan.

4. How Do I Feel With Them?

Sometimes the most important information comes not from what’s said, but how it’s said. Pay attention to these subtle cues as you talk, and ask yourself:

• How Do I Feel While Talking to Them?

  • Are you calm, curious, or even uncomfortable? Notice how their presence makes you feel. Do you feel safe and supported?

• Do I Feel Heard?

  • Do they seem engaged and attentive, or do they rush through the conversation? Good therapists are active listeners who make you feel heard.

• Do I Like Their Energy?

  • Do they come across as warm and empathetic, or more distant and clinical? You want someone whose energy aligns with how you want to explore your life.
    

Conclusion: Trust Your Gut

Asking the right questions helps you get a clear picture of the therapist’s approach, values, and growth. But equally important is how you feel during the conversation. If the energy feels off, it’s okay to keep looking. The right therapist will make you feel both challenged and supported.