Why do a Consultation Call?
On my website you will notice that you can do a consultation call. You might be wondering,
“why do a consultation call? I don’t do that with any other professional.” In the world of counseling, the relationship between the counselor and client is paramount. Did you know that the relationship between the counselor and client is one of the biggest predictors of change? The “therapeutic alliance” as it can be called is about the quality of relationship between the helper and helpee.
Starting counseling is an undertaking financially, socially and emotionally. As a counselor,
I want to ensure that before services are rendered that we have been able to chat about the client’s goals for counseling so we can determine if working together is a good fit. Also, talking on the phone can be a low pressure “get to know you”.
As I consult with a potential client, I like to discuss my style of counseling and sometimes I like to ask potential clients questions like:
· “Why counseling now?”
· “Have you been to counseling before?”
· “What are you looking for in a counselor?”
Sometimes we discuss payment and logistics, however, sometimes a potential client needs to think about what was discussed to determine if working together is a good fit. I would much rather you find the best counselor than for you to think down the road that “counseling isn’t for me” because we weren’t good fit.
A consultation call is a great place for a potential client to ask other questions about the therapeutic process or fears or concerns about starting therapy. Some questions might include:
· “What is your experience working with ___ [anxiety, depression, grief, etc.]?”
· “What is your approach to therapy?”
· “Do you have experience working with people in my stage of life?”
· “How will we know if I am making progress?”
· “What if we decide it’s not a good fit after we start?”
You might be wondering, “how could a potential client prepare for a Consultation Call”?
1. Have a summary of why you are seeking counseling or a list of the top three things that you are wanting to address.
2. Have your insurance information available. (I will be taking insurance SOON!)
3. Write questions out so if your mind goes blank you have something to fall back on.
4. Make sure you are in a private place where you won’t be interrupted.
The final question you might be asking is “How does a potential client know if a counselor is a good fit?”
Is the vibe right? That’s how my young adult clients call it these days! A few questions to consider:
· Do you feel heard and respected by the counselor?
· The counselor explains their approach and process of counseling in an understandable way.
· The counselor freely offers information about their credentials and background.
If you are on the fence about counseling, book a FREE CONSULTATION today! Click the link at the top of the page.
Seeking help takes courage! Telling your story takes courage! Being nervous when reaching out is normal. I am here to help see if ‘we’ might be a good fit.