Choosing a couples therapist in Bethesda, Maryland is a little different from selecting a general healthcare provider. It’s important to be aware that you are going to get very personal with the therapist that you choose. Working with two people in a session can be difficult. You want a therapist who understands couple’s therapy and won’t take sides. Here are some questions to get you started when you’re interviewing a couples therapist in Bethesda, MD at Lindsey Hoskins & Associates.

What Kind of Training Have You Had in Couples Counseling?

Ideally, look for a counselor with a Marriage and Family Therapist MFT license, but at the very least, find a couples therapist in Bethesda, MD who specializes in marriage and couple’s counseling. Ask about what methods are used in counseling. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is considered to be one of the most effective methods, but there are other good types of counseling. The methodology can give you insights into how the therapist works.

What Are Your Values About Relationships?

You should know what kind of values the therapist has about staying in love and working together on your relationship. Your therapist shouldn’t impart his or her own values on you. A good couples therapist in Bethesda, MD may ask why you want to stay in your marriage, but asking “why you’re putting up with something,” or telling you it’s time to move on, isn’t a good counselor. Couple’s therapists shouldn’t tell you it’s time to end the relationship.

How Will You Set Goals For Counseling? 

Your therapist should set this question back in your lap. You should be the ones setting your own goals. Of course, the couples therapist in Bethesda, MD may help you define those goals, but if they tell you what he or she thinks should happen before talking to you, that’s a red flag. You set the goals.

Ask Yourself – Do You Both Feel Safe With The Therapist?

Sure, you need to like the person who is providing therapy, but the better question to ask is if you can trust this person. You’re going to have to share some very personal details to get the most out of counseling with a couples therapist in Bethesda, MD. If you or your partner doesn’t feel safe enough to share, then the experience isn’t going to work.

Take Your Time Finding the Right Therapist

You may be able to ask these questions on the phone before you make an appointment. Some, you may have to wait until your first appointment to really get the information you need. It’s okay to interview more than one couples therapist in Bethesda, MD before you delve into therapy. Your marriage is worth finding a therapist that you both feel comfortable with.

Make an appointment today with Lindsey Hoskins & Associates, couples therapist in Bethesda, MD to improve your relationship.