Seeking help from an anxiety therapist can be a crucial step in managing and overcoming anxiety. However, finding the right therapist for your needs is equally important. To ensure that you make the most of your therapy sessions, asking the right questions is essential. In this blog, we’ll recommend ten important questions you can ask your anxiety therapist to understand their approach better and make an informed decision.

If you generally prefer online therapy, we provide Telehealth services at Pynk Health. You can choose between video chats or over-the-phone appointments, whichever option makes you feel most comfortable.

What is your experience in treating anxiety disorders?

Understanding your therapist’s experience in anxiety treatment in particular is crucial. Inquire about their experience, qualifications, and any specialised training they may have received to address anxiety disorders specifically.

What therapeutic approach do you use?

Different therapists may employ various therapeutic approaches. Ask your therapist to explain their preferred method and how it can help you manage your anxiety. Popular techniques may include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, or mindfulness-based therapies.

How can therapy help me with my specific anxiety challenges?

Anxiety disorders can manifest in different ways for each individual. Discuss your particular anxiety challenges with your therapist and ask them to explain how therapy can address your unique needs and support your journey towards recovery or managing anxiety in the long term.

What can I expect during therapy sessions?

Understanding the structure and format of therapy sessions is essential for managing expectations. Inquire about the frequency of sessions, their duration, and the potential duration of therapy overall. You can also ask about any homework or exercises you may be expected to complete between sessions.

How can we measure progress?

It’s essential to have measurable goals and benchmarks during therapy. Ask your therapist how they track progress and what indicators they use to evaluate your development. This will help you understand the milestones along your therapeutic journey.

Are there any additional resources or techniques I can use outside of therapy?

Therapy sessions alone may not be sufficient to manage anxiety. Inquire about any self-help resources, books, or strategies you can utilise outside of therapy sessions to enhance your progress. This may include breathing exercises, journaling, or relaxation techniques.

What is your availability and preferred mode of communication between sessions?

Understanding your psychologist’s availability and preferred mode of communication can help you establish effective lines of communication. Ask about their policy for emergencies or urgent situations and how they can be reached outside of scheduled sessions.

How do you handle episodes or setbacks?

Anxiety can be a complex condition with ups and downs. Ask your therapist about their approach to handling anxiety episodes or ‘flare-ups,’ or setbacks during your therapy journey. Understanding their strategies for managing setbacks can help you develop resilience and coping mechanisms.

Can you help me develop long-term coping skills?

Managing anxiety is not just about short-term relief but also about developing sustainable coping mechanisms. Ask your therapist how they can support you in developing long-term skills to manage stress and maintain progress.

What is your policy on confidentiality?

Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of therapy. Ensure you clearly understand your therapist’s confidentiality policy and any exceptions to confidentiality, such as situations involving harm to yourself or others. This will help you establish trust and feel secure in sharing your experiences.

Why ask these questions before starting therapy?

Asking your anxiety therapist the right questions before beginning therapy can help you gain valuable insights into their approach, experience, and suitability for your needs. Overall, open and honest communication is the key to building a solid therapeutic relationship. By seeking some clarification, you can ensure that you and your therapist are aligned in your goals and working together effectively towards managing and overcoming anxiety.

Pynk Health: All-female therapists via Telehealth

We are an empathetic, all-women team of clinical and registered psychologists.

Our specialisation lies in understanding the factors that impact women’s well-being. Our support is personalised to suit your unique situation, capacity, and circumstances.

Together, we have an average collective experience of 22 years, and our team members have full membership in the Australian Psychological Society (APS).

We acknowledge and embrace the individuality of each person we work with. Our team is dedicated to mental health and addresses women’s specific challenges. We focus on various women-specific issues, spanning different life stages such as adolescence, motherhood, career management, and navigating relationships.

Currently, all our services are conducted through Telehealth, allowing you to choose the most comfortable environment and a convenient time that suits your needs. We also offer phone-based services without video for those who prefer it.

So, whether you’re in a city such as Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, or a remote location, we can help you!

Contact us today.