Finding the right therapist in San Marcos is a crucial step toward healing from trauma and anxiety.  Whether you're considering EMDR therapy, Somatic therapy, or both, asking the right questions can help you choose a therapist who aligns with your needs.

Below are eight essential questions to ask during a consultation to ensure a good fit.

1.  What is Your Experience in Treating Trauma and Anxiety?

· Understanding the therapist’s background in trauma and anxiety, length of time and training within these areas of focus, and what has been successful with past clients will help you gauge their level of expertise.

· Look for experience in PTSD, childhood trauma, and dissociation.  How do they approach clients with a long history of trauma versus clients who experienced a single incident? 

· Look for experience in General Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Phobias, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.  There are subtle differences between these diagnoses and sometimes need specific type of training and experience.

2. Are You Trained in EMDR, Somatic, or Parts Work Therapy?

· EMDR Therapy is highly effective for trauma processing. Ask if they are certified and what this entails.

· Somatic Therapy focuses on the mind-body connection. trauma and anxiety have a significant impact on the mind, body, and nervous system. Ask if and how they incorporate body-based techniques.

· Parts Work (IFS or Ego State therapy) is effective in developing understanding of one’s reactions, bringing insight, awareness, and self-compassion often difficult for clients who have experienced past abuse.  Ask if and how they incorporate parts work as part of trauma and anxiety healing.

3. What is Your Approach to Trauma Therapy?

· Some therapists use a structured approach while others are more flexible.

· Ask about their philosophy and how they adapt therapy to individual needs.

· Ask about their thoughts with medication or other alternative healing practices as part of treatment.

4. How Do You Ensure a Safe and Supportive Environment?

· Safety and non-judgment are essential no matter the therapeutic approach.

· Ask how they establish trust and safety in therapy.

5. What Should I Expect During Our Sessions?

· Understanding the process of therapy from beginning to end can ease anxiety, especially if it’s your first time.

· Ask about length of sessions, frequency, techniques used, and what early progress may look like.

· Ask if progress is reviewed throughout therapy.  Occasional review of your treatment plan and goals helps you and your therapist collaborate on your progress, determine if any changes are needed, or if you're ready to move towards termination of therapy. 

6. Do You Offer In-Person and Online Therapy Options?

· If you’re searching for a therapist in San Marcos, consider whether in-person sessions will benefit you based on your needs.

· Ask if telehealth options are provided for flexibility.  Do they offer telehealth as an option if you’re temporarily not feeling well or have unexpected transportation issues?

7. What Are Your Fees, and Do You Accept Insurance?

· It’s important that not only it's a good fit therapeutically, but also financially. 

· Ask about insurance, fees, sliding-scale options, and if they provide Superbills for those who are eligible to go out-of-network for therapy.

· As part of the No Surprise Act of 2024, every client has a right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining estimated cost of services.

8. How Do I Know If You’re the Right Therapist for Me?

· A good therapist will ask how you’re feeling at the end of your first session.  Are you feeling comfortable after talking with the therapist?  If still unsure in the first session, often a client has a better sense by the third or fourth session. 

· It’s okay to ask if they feel you’re the right client for them given your presenting complaints and goals for therapy.  A good therapist will be honest about their limitations and offer referrals. 

· Trust and comfort in the therapeutic relationship is essential and good indicators of the right match.  Trust your gut. 

If you’re seeking EMDR Therapy, Somatic Therapy, or both, in or near San Marcos, CA, I invite you to book a free consultation to explore how therapy can support you.