Scheduling A Therapy for The First Time? Here’s What To Do

Booking your first therapy session can feel like a big step, and it’s normal to feel a little unsure about what to say or how to approach the process. Whether you’re calling a therapist for the first time, sending an email, or navigating a clinic’s scheduling process, knowing what to expect and what to say can make the entire process smoother and less intimidating. 

What to Expect When Booking Therapy

It’s helpful to understand what the booking process typically looks like. Therapists or clinics often have a receptionist, intake coordinator, or scheduler who will help guide you through the process.

Whether you’re picking up the phone, sending an email, or completing an online form, the main objective is to find a therapist who suits your needs and secure your first session. To make the process easier, here are some important things to consider when reaching out:

It’s okay to feel nervous

Starting therapy can be a new experience, and it’s natural to feel uncertain at the beginning. The person on the other end, whether over the phone or by email, is there to guide you and help you feel at ease.

Be ready to share some basic information

Typically, you’ll need to provide some basic details like your name, contact information, and a general idea of what you’re seeking therapy for.

Be honest about your needs

Your therapist is there to help you, so being upfront about your goals and struggles can guide the process of matching you with the right provider.

Making the First Move: What to Say When Calling a Therapist for the First Time

For many people, reaching out to a therapist begins with a phone call. The idea of what to say to a therapist for the first time can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. When calling to schedule an appointment, keep the conversation brief and direct, as the person answering the phone may need to direct you to a scheduler or therapist.

Here’s a simple script to follow when you’re calling a therapist for the first time:

Start with a brief introduction

“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling to schedule a therapy appointment. I’ve been feeling [emotion, e.g., anxious, stressed] or struggling with [issue, e.g., relationship issues, work stress], and I’m hoping to talk to someone about it.”

Be prepared to answer some basic questions

After your introduction, you may be asked questions like:

• Your personal information (name, age, address)
• A brief description of your symptoms and how long you’ve been experiencing them
• Whether or not you have insurance and what type it is
• Your availability for appointments

Even if you’re feeling nervous, remember that these are common questions designed to help the clinic match you with the right therapist.

Ask the right questions

It’s important to ask the right questions to ensure the therapist is a good fit for your needs. Here are a few things to consider:

• “Do you accept my insurance? If so, how much is the co-pay for each session?”
• “If you don’t accept my insurance, what are the costs for a session?”
• “Do you specialize in [issue, e.g., trauma, anxiety, depression]?”
• “Do you offer virtual or in-person sessions?”

If you don’t feel comfortable with a phone call, you can always email a therapist instead, which brings us to the next section.

Reaching Out by Email: How to Email a Therapist for the First Time

For some, making a phone call can feel overwhelming, and that’s completely okay. Reaching out via email can be a great alternative, offering a less daunting way to start the conversation. When emailing a therapist for the first time, aim to be clear and straightforward about your needs while providing enough detail to help them understand what you’re seeking.

Here’s a simple template for emailing a therapist for the first time:

Subject Line: Seeking Therapy

Dear [Therapist’s Name],

Introduce yourself and explain why you’re reaching out

“My name is [Your Full Name], and I’m reaching out because I’m interested in starting therapy. I’ve been dealing with [mention your main issue, e.g., anxiety, stress, life changes], and I believe therapy could be helpful.”

Ask about the therapist’s experience and approach

“Could you tell me about your experience working with clients who are dealing with [issue, e.g., anxiety, depression]? I’d also appreciate learning about the types of therapy you specialize in and your treatment approach.”

Mention your availability and ask about theirs

“I’m generally available [mention your availability, e.g., weekday mornings, evenings]. Do you offer [in-person/virtual] sessions, and what times might work for you?”

Ask about costs and payment options

“Could you also provide details on your session fees, what insurance you accept, and whether there are self-pay options available?”

Close politely

“Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.”

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Information, optional]

Key Tips for Booking a Therapy Session

Whether you’re calling a therapist or emailing, keep these tips in mind to help ensure your booking process goes smoothly:

Be clear about your needs

Before reaching out to a therapist, it’s important to have a sense of what you’re hoping to achieve. Are you seeking help with anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges? Do you have a preference for a particular therapy style, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or trauma-informed therapy? Defining your goals can guide you in finding the best match for your needs.

Be honest, but don’t feel pressured to share everything immediately

It’s okay to share what you feel comfortable with, and it’s also okay if you’re unsure about how to express your concerns at first. You’ll have plenty of time during your therapy sessions to discuss things in greater depth.

Consider your availability

Therapists often have limited slots available, especially in the evenings or on weekends. The more flexible you are with your schedule, the faster you’ll likely be able to get in for your first session.

Be prepared for waitlists

Sometimes, therapists may have a waiting list, which can be frustrating if you’re eager to start therapy. If this happens, it’s okay to ask how long the wait is and whether they can recommend any other therapists or clinics in the meantime.

Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back

Booking your first therapy session is a significant step toward taking care of your mental health. It’s natural to feel a bit unsure about what to say when scheduling an appointment with a therapist, but once you know what to expect and how to communicate your needs, the process becomes much easier. Remember, reaching out to a therapist for the first time is an important move toward improving your well-being, and therapists are there to support you without judgment. Therapy can provide the support and tools you need to work through challenges and build a better future for yourself.