Before You Reach Out
A few questions worth thinking through first
There’s no need to have all the answers before you call. But sitting with these questions ahead of time tends to make that first conversation — and the process of finding the right therapist — a little easier.
What's prompting you to seek therapy?
A short history is helpful. Is there a recent event or crisis that brought this need into focus, or has it been building for a while?
What are you hoping to work toward?
Goals can range from personal growth, to improving a relationship, to learning new skills, to working through something more difficult. There's no wrong answer — and it's fine if it's not fully clear yet.
How would you like a therapist to help?
- Do you want someone to listen and understand, or offer suggestions and information?
- Are you looking for a specific therapeutic approach?
- Will you need assessment, evaluation, or a referral for medication?
- Do you anticipate needing written reports, for legal or other purposes?
What matters to you in a therapist?
Age, gender, culture, and race don't affect a therapist's skill — but they can affect how comfortable you feel opening up, and that comfort matters. Language preference is worth considering too. Our Doctors page lists each therapist’s background and the languages they work in.
What are your insurance or financial needs?
- Not every therapist here is on every insurance panel — worth checking before your first session.
- Sliding-scale rates are available with several of our therapists.
- Associates and interns offer a lower-cost option for those on a tighter budget.
- Forensic work and other specialties that require additional training may carry a different rate.
What happens after you reach out?
After an initial call, you'll be referred to a single therapist, or given the names of a few who might be a good fit, so you can choose. Because each therapist here runs an independent practice, it's best if a doctor can reach a new patient by phone directly to get things started.
Ready when you are
Browse the full list of therapists and specialties, or get in touch directly and we’ll help point you the right way.