8 Questions To Ask When Deciding On The Right Therapist (4 of 5)

How do they conduct their therapy sessions?

No two therapy sessions are alike. Some of the factors that influence their structure include the therapist’s personality and expertise as well as your particular mental health condition. For example, imagine you’re coping with trauma. A session with a therapist who specializes in this area may involve grounding techniques and guided reflection. By contrast, if you have ADHD, a therapist might instead structure the time around goal-setting and practical strategies for organization and focus.

Would medication be an option?

Patients receiving psychotherapy often take medications as part of their treatment. Evidence overwhelming shows that using both together can be effective. Note that only MDs – not psychologists, social workers or mental health counselors – can prescribe medication, but your therapist shouldn’t have any problems referring you to a psychiatrist who can do it for you.