Top Questions to Ask a Potential LGBTQIA+ Counsellor or Psychologist in Melbourne
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, finding a counsellor or psychologist who understands and supports your unique needs can make a world of difference. However, it can be challenging to know what to ask when first speaking with an LGBTQIA+ counsellor or psychologist in Melbourne to get the information you need to determine if they will be the right fit for you. Here are some key questions to ask during your consultation.
What is your experience working with LGBTQIA+ clients?
When searching for an LGBTQIA+ counsellor or psychologist, consider their experience within the community. You may want to ask about the specific services they've worked for and which populations within the community they have supported. It's good to check in here regarding the age range of clients they support.
Have you worked with clients who have similar concerns to mine?
Additionally, it's helpful to know if the LGBTQIA+ counsellor/psychologist has experience with the specific issues you're bringing to counselling. For example, have they worked with people who struggle with drug and alcohol addiction or is their area of expertise working with couples who are in polyamorous or open relationships?
What modalities do you use in therapy?
Understanding the therapist's approach to dealing with your presenting issues will give you a sense of what it might be like to work with them. For example, do they use specific techniques like EMDR for trauma work or internal family systems for emotional development? How do they structure their sessions and measure outcomes? How challenging or supportive would they describe their therapeutic approach, and does this meet your current needs?
What are the most common outcomes for LGBTQIA+ clients that come to see them?
It's okay to ask for anecdotes from previous clients after successful treatment. For example, do their clients report an increased capacity to notice negative relationship patterns? Do they have skills in relating to others in healthier ways? Do their ex-clients feel more confident in regulating their distress?
How do you address issues of intersectionality, such as race, gender, and disability?
Finally, it's worth asking about the therapist's understanding of intersectionality and whether they have experience working with marginalised populations. Have they specifically worked with clients in your specific circumstance?
Practicalities
Finally, ask about practicalities such as how the fee is paid, whether they offer Medicare rebates, and whether you need to make the rebate claim independently. What is their cancellation policy, and how is this applied? Too.
Finding the right LGBTQIA+ counsellor or psychologist in Melbourne takes time and effort. By being prepared and asking your most important questions during your consultation, you can feel more confident that you have found someone who can support your unique needs. Reach out for a free 15-minute consult to discuss whether I might be the right counsellor for you.
