Questions to Ask A Black Therapist NJ

So, you’re probably looking at the title like this is shady or ooh let me find some good questions up in this blog.  Well, let me tell you a little something.  There are some generic questions that anyone should ask any counselor or therapist no matter what race, background, etc.  I will have those listed at the end of this article.

This article is for people of color seeking to work with a therapist of color and questions that may be helpful to ask based on what you may be looking for.  If you are seeking a black therapist, there may be very specific reasons why you are seeking such as if you’re looking for relatability (if that’s a word), commonality, someone that understands “the culture”, or something along those lines.

Well, black therapists come from all backgrounds, ethnicity, cultures, religious/spiritual backgrounds, and economic statuses.  So, just because a therapist is black, doesn’t mean that they will “get you” or understands “the culture” so to say.  I’m coming from a place of love and kindness when I say this because you don’t want to assume just because a therapist is black that they are going to vibe with you or understand where you're coming from because that may not be their experience. In fact, you may be surprised you gets you and it may not be someone in your race.  

With this being said, you want to be sure that during the consultation you ask some good questions and really feel out your prospective therapist to see if you two make a good fit.  And if you not feeling the person, then that’s okay.  It’s better to know up front than when you are a few sessions in, so you don’t waste your time and get the help you need.  This is important because it takes a lot of courage to start therapy, so you want to make a good start and have a comfortable experience.  

So, now that we have the assumptions part out of the way.  Let’s roll up our sleeves and asks some juicy questions.  Okay, so the questions aren’t juicy, their just basic to help you figure out if this therapist is the right one for you.  When thinking of the questions, think of what is important for you in a therapist.  Like you already decided you want a black therapist, so what specifically about this person is important to you?  Is it their views on certain issues, support of certain causes, understanding cultural references, knowledge about a particular religion or ethnic background?  Or none of that matters and you just want to work with someone that looks like you. If that’s the case just skip to the bottom to the general questions for a therapist.  If you want more specific questions, stick around up here for a minute.

Okay first and foremost, what’s most important to you in relation to a therapist and go from there.

Questions to Ask a Black Therapist NJ During a Therapy Consultation

Example of questions relative to what’s important to you could go like this….

1.  What experience do you have working with ……..(fill in with an area you would like your ideal therapist to have experience in)?  That could be LGBTQIA, a particular religion, and ethnic group, etc).  I must say, just because a therapist may not have experience in a certain area or with a specific population, doesn’t mean they can’t help you.  So, be open-minded and just listen carefully to their responses.

2. What is your understanding of …… (cause, issue, etc. that is important to you)?

3. How can you help me with ….. (the particular issue you have come to counseling for)?

4. What is your understanding of how race/background/culture may or may not pertain to my issue (the reason I came to counseling)?  This question may be a bit much but could be helpful if you find it relevant.

5. How can you help me with this issue (the reason why you are seeking therapy)?

At the end of the day, really what you want to know is if this therapist whether it be a black therapist or whoever can help you with the particular issue you’re seeking counseling for.  I want to reiterate to not assume just because you find a black therapist that person can get you or automatically understands you.  Please use your due diligence and be open-minded and make sure you find the right therapist with the appropriate credentials, experience, and expertise in what you need help for.  What matters is that you feel comfortable with the therapist, they are kind and professional, and have the expertise and experience that you need.  The most important aspect in having successful outcomes in treatment is the therapeutic relationship, so that’s why it’s truly important that you have a good fit with the therapist of your choosing.  So, from a black therapist I tell you to be open-minded, go with your gut, be open to growth and change, and make no assumptions because no one knows everything and just because you like your therapist, you may be more different than the same.

Questions To Ask A Therapist

What is your specialty?

Well, this is an important question because you want someone who specializes in the area of treatment that you need.  You wouldn’t go to a foot doctor if you had heart problems.  The same thing applies to therapy, visit a specialist with expertise in your needs.

How many years of experience do you have?

Experience can be important especially when thinking in terms of expertise, but sometimes an evergreen therapist can provide a new perspective on things.  It all depends on your preference.  If this is important to you then be sure to get an answer.  Bonus question:  What is most of your experience in? Don’t assume an older therapist is well seasoned.  Some people change their careers.  Make no assumptions, just ask.

What is your therapy style?

No two people are alike including therapists and neither are our clients.  You want to find out what their therapy style is and how this applies to your needs and personality.  

How often are therapy sessions and why?

Many therapists offer weekly sessions.  Some therapists who may have a busier or preferred style may be to schedule to see clients biweekly.  You want to know how often sessions are and what’s the logic behind it?

How will I know when I’m done with treatment?

Wouldn’t it be great to know when you’re done because treatment isn’t necessarily a forever thing?  So, you want to hear the therapist’s approach to monitoring your progress and decision to terminate treatment. 

How soon can I start therapy?

You’re ready to get started and want to jump on this train while it’s hot.  Be sure to find out how soon you can schedule a session if there is a waitlist, and what the availability is like for therapy time i.e. day of the week and hours.

Do you accept insurance or private pay? 

If appropriate, do you provide a superbill (it’s a special type of payment receipt a therapist provides that may help you to be reimbursed by your health insurance if the therapist doesn’t accept insurance or is an out of network provider), so I can possibly get reimbursed by my insurance?

If you’re insured you want to find out if the therapist accepts your type of insurance.  If they are out of network (don’t accept insurance), you want to find out if your insurance will reimburse you.  You will need to call your insurance and ask.

What is the cost of therapy sessions?

The dreaded M word, money. Be mindful of your needs.  If you find someone that you feel is a good fit, you may need to think about how you can manage your finances to pay.  Research shows that progress in therapy is based on the therapeutic relationship.  Money can’t buy that!

Are sessions offered in the office or telehealth or online video counseling?  Is there an option for telehealth in the future just in case something arises?

Hey, you saw what happened last year when everything shut down for months.  You want to know if there is an option for telehealth or online video counseling just in case something comes up.  You want to know your options.

How can you help me with my specific problem or issue?

This question can give you insight as to what to expect in therapy and hopefully provide some comfort in knowing how your treatment issue will be resolved.  No surprises!

I hope this article helped you in terms of questions to ask a black therapist NJ and helps you find the right therapist that will suit your needs. If you’re feeling stuck, feel free to give me a call at 856.441.5216. I will be happy to assist you and help direct you to the right person. If you’re looking for help with trauma therapy, managing depression or anxiety, you can read more about how I can help here.