Reaching out for therapy is an important step toward improving your mental health, but knowing what to do when scheduling your first session can be overwhelming. Whether you prefer to schedule therapy by phone or email, it’s helpful to know what to say when calling or emailing a therapist for the first time.
How to Call a Therapist for the First Time
Reaching out to a therapist for the first time can feel intimidating, especially when you’re about to make that phone call. However, with a little preparation, you can approach the conversation confidently and clearly.
What to Say When Calling a Therapist for the First Time
When calling a therapist, start by introducing yourself clearly and concisely. Here’s a simple guide on how to structure your introduction:
Introduce Yourself
“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling because I’m interested in starting therapy.”
State Your Reason
Briefly share why you’re seeking therapy, such as “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed with stress lately” or “I’ve been struggling with anxiety and need support.”
Ask Questions
Feel free to inquire about the therapist’s availability, their approach to treatment, and their experience in addressing particular concerns. For example: “Do you specialize in anxiety or stress management? What’s your approach to therapy?”
Discuss Availability
If you have preferred days or times for sessions, mention them early on. For instance, you might say, i
Ask About Fees and Insurance
It’s important to clarify costs. Ask, “What is the cost per session, and do you accept [specific insurance provider]?”
Making Your Initial Call Easy
If you find it challenging to make a phone call, it may help to write down your questions and concerns beforehand. This can guide your conversation and make sure you don’t forget anything important.
How to Make a Therapy Appointment via Email
Not everyone feels comfortable calling, and many people prefer to email their therapist instead. You just need to know the things you need to say for smoother communication.
What to Say When Scheduling an Appointment with a Therapist via Email
Emailing a therapist allows you to carefully consider what you want to communicate. Here’s a simple outline for crafting your initial message:
Introduce Yourself
Start with your name and mention why you’re reaching out. “My name is [Your Name], and I’m looking to start therapy to address [briefly mention the reason, such as anxiety, stress, life transitions, etc.].”
Ask About Experience and Approach
Make sure the therapist is well-suited to your specific needs. You might ask, “Can you share your experience working with clients who face [mention your concern]? What types of therapy do you offer, and how do you typically approach treatment?”
Discuss Availability
Mention your general availability, such as “I’m available on weekdays after 3 p.m. or weekend mornings. Do you have open slots at these times?”
Inquire About Fees and Insurance
Financial concerns are often a key part of booking therapy. “What is your rate per session? Do you accept [specific insurance], or do you offer a self-pay option?”
Cancellation Policy
It’s helpful to know their cancellation policy early on. “Can you also share your cancellation policy in case something comes up?”
Sample Email for First-Time Contact
Here’s an example of a first-time email to a therapist:
Subject Line: Inquiry About Therapy Sessions
Dear [Therapist’s Name],
My name is [Your Full Name], and I’m interested in starting therapy. I’m hoping to address [mention your concern], and I believe therapy could be really helpful.
Could you please share your experience working with clients who face [similar concerns]? I’d also love to know more about your approach to therapy and what types of treatment you offer.
In terms of scheduling, I’m available [mention your preferred days/times]. Do you offer both in-person and online sessions?
Lastly, could you let me know your session rates, whether you accept [insurance provider], and if you offer a self-pay option?
Thank you so much for your time. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Optional: Your Contact Information]
Tips for Scheduling a Therapy Appointment
Booking a therapy session can be simple, but a little preparation helps streamline the process. Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved:
1. Decide on Your Preferred Method
Some people prefer to call, while others may prefer to email their therapist. Think about what method will be most comfortable for you.
2. Identify What You Need
Before scheduling, think about your needs. Do you want a therapist with a specific specialty, such as anxiety or depression? Do you have preferences for in-person or video sessions? Identifying these needs upfront will help you find a therapist who fits well with your requirements.
3. Prepare for the Appointment
After selecting a therapist and booking your first session, take some time to prepare. Jot down any thoughts, feelings, or concerns you’d like to discuss. This preparation will help ensure your first session is as effective as possible.
What to Expect After Booking a Therapy Session
Once you’ve successfully booked a therapy session, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Confirmation and Follow-Up
Most therapists will confirm your appointment either through email or a phone call. If you don’t hear back within a few days, feel free to follow up. Be sure to check in on things like insurance details or specific directions if you’re meeting in person.
Prepare for Your Session
Think about the topics or concerns you want to focus on in your first session. Having a clear idea of what you’d like to address can help you make the most of your therapy experience.
Post-Session Follow-Up
After your first session, you may decide if you want to continue with the therapist. Some people find it helpful to take notes after the session to keep track of progress or important insights that came up during the meeting.
Booking Therapy Can Be Simple
Scheduling a therapy session doesn’t need to be stressful. With a little preparation, you can approach calling or emailing a therapist with confidence. Whether you’re contacting them for the first time or arranging a follow-up, keep in mind that this is a key step toward improving your mental well-being.