Questions to Ask a Prospective Anxiety Therapist in Birmingham, AL
We live in a culture of constantly being on the go, striving to be the best in all that we do, and pushing ourselves to live up to incredibly high standards. What often comes with this is a sense of worry.
It is common to worry about the choices we make if we are living up to the expectations placed upon us by ourselves and loved ones, and if we are on the “right path”. We also worry about our friends, family, communities, and on and on. This worry is also described as anxiety.
What is Anxiety?
“Anxiety” is a word heard often in our daily lives. It is normal to experience anxiety. Everybody will experience some level of anxiety at some point throughout their lives. But, sometimes that worry becomes all-consuming and we begin to worry about all the things we cannot control.
This worry, or anxiety, begins to affect one's ability to complete usual tasks, we begin to have physical symptoms, lose sleep because our mind doesn’t stop racing when we lay down to sleep at night, and wonder how other people are able to go on living “normally” while we are struggling to maintain our relationships, jobs, and find some joy in our lives.
Don’t Struggle With Your Anxiety Alone
If this sounds like you, you don’t have to struggle with this alone. If you are ready to find an anxiety therapist in Birmingham, Alabama, but are unsure what to ask potential therapists, we want to share some questions to help you along the way. Finding the right anxiety therapist is the first step in finding freedom from your anxious thoughts.
Questions to Ask an Anxiety Therapist in Birmingham, AL
Logistics in anxiety therapy
Ask about their practices policies and procedures. How much does a session cost? How long do sessions last? How often do you schedule appointments? Do you take insurance? Do you offer virtual appointments?
What is your cancellation policy? Can you work around my schedule? Knowing how the counseling practice policies and structure can help you with expectations and the anxiety of coming to your first appointment.
2. Qualifications of the anxiety therapist
Ask what the therapist’s qualifications are. Are you a Licensed Professional Counselor (requires more hours of direct counseling with a supervisor), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (requires more education specifically dealing with marriage and families), an Associate Licensed Counselor (under supervision and still working on getting their hours for licensure), or a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (under the supervision and still working on getting their hours for licensure)? How much specific training have you had in anxiety therapy?
3. Experience in Anxiety Therapy
Ask how long they have worked with clients experiencing anxiety. Do you understand the challenges people with anxiety face? Have they learned good strategies for helping clients with anxiety and overthinking?
4. THEIR OWN THERAPEUTIC JOURNEY
It is okay to ask a prospective anxiety therapist if they believe in the service they provide. Have they experienced anxiety themselves? Have they received their own therapy for anxiety? If so, did they find it helpful?
Be Sure To Find an Anxiety Therapist Who Is Right For You
Finding the right therapist for your anxiety is so important. Research tells us that the most important piece to your success in the therapeutic process is the client-therapist relationship. You need to like and trust your therapist!
When asking the questions above, look for the person you feel most comfortable with. Look for someone who will support you and take the time to build a trusting relationship where you feel confident and safe to share your journey with your therapist.
Interested in Meeting With an Anxiety Therapist in Birmingham, AL?
If you're struggling with anxiety and looking for professional support at Sparrow Counseling, don't hesitate to take action. Our caring anxiety therapists are here to help you gain the skills and tools you need to manage your anxiety and improve your quality of life. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier future by reaching out to us now.
Click here to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation or call us at 205-538-3978.
Meet with one of our skilled anxiety therapists
Begin seeing positive changes in your life!
Also, read our blog Finding an Anxiety Therapist in Birmingham, AL to learn more.
Other Services Offered at Sparrow Counseling
At Sparrow Counseling we offer in-person and online therapy in the state of Alabama. In addition to anxiety therapy at our Birmingham, AL practice, our team offers services for grief and loss counseling and individual counseling. We also specialize in co-parenting counseling, reunification therapy, blended family counseling, divorce & family mediation, discernment counseling, and more. Learn more by checking out our FAQs and Blog!