Connecting for Kids - Therapist Questions

Questions to Ask Therapy Providers

Choosing the right provider for your family can be scary. After all, you'll be trusting this person with your child's needs - so how do you make sure that this person is right for you?

Did You Know?

Connecting for Kids also offers a free How-To Guide to help you through the process of selecting a mental health provider. To download this guide, see our How-To Guide section.

Sample Questions

The following questions are examples of what you may want to consider asking when meeting with a mental health provider:

What is your background/training?

Providers often have different levels of training and use different methods. For example, social workers and counselors may both practice with clients who have mental health concerns, but they can have different philosophies and training.

Do you have any specialty training or experience?

Have you worked with children who have challenges similar to my child's challenges?
What other specialty training or special interests do you have in my child's area of need?

How are the families who work with you typically involved in their child's treatment?

Should I expect to meet with you before you meet my child?
Do you ever meet with parents only?
Do you meet with my child one-on-one? If so, will I be allowed to know what happens during my child's appointment?
Do we ever meet as a whole family?

How long does treatment typically last and when does it take place?

How often do you expect my child will need to meet with you? Weekly? Every other week? Monthly?
How long is a typical appointment?
How long does a typical treatment plan last? A couple of sessions? Several weeks? Several months?
When are appointments typically scheduled? After school hours? During school? Are evenings and weekends available?

How do you coordinate with other providers?

Can you provide a diagnosis report?
Are you able to coordinate with my child's pediatrician or other specialists?
Do you prescribe medication? If not, can you refer me to someone who can?
Are there other specialists in your office that can also help with my child's treatment?

What types of payment do you accept?

Do you accept my health insurance?
Can you help me submit paperwork for my healthcare reimbursement account (HCRA)?
Are there other funding sources I can access to help cover the cost of treatment?

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Phone: 1-440-570-5908
Email: info@connectingforkids.org

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30628 Detroit Rd. #252
Westlake, Ohio 44145