What types of questions should a person ask a psychologist when they are considering establishing a therapeutic relationship with them?

Some sample questions could include:

1. Are they a chartered psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists which is the regulatory body for the profession of psychology? Or are they a provisional psychologist being supervised by a chartered psychologist, if so, who is their supervisor and what professional training and experience have they acquired?
2. What are their session rates and how long is a typical session? Do they adhere to a crisis intervention model, or brief, short-term intervention model ( 6-8 weeks) or are they able to provide longer term therapeutic support?
3. What degree do they hold and how many years of experience have they accumulated as a practicing psychologist?
4. What is their area of competence and do they have any experience working with people with either Bipolar, Unipolar or Schizoaffective Disorder?

   If so, have them elaborate on a situation they dealt with and perhaps what their particular therapeutic approach was.

5. What therapeutic modality do they embrace in their practice? Does this practitioner employ a cognitive-behavorial approach, humanistic approach, solution-focused model or perhaps a Gestalt or Jungian approach. Have them elaborate on what that therapeutic modality looks like in a day-to-day practice.
6. What are their professional values around the use of medication for the treatment of a mental health condition and what is their knowledge base around the medication you may be currently taking?
7. Are they willing to communicate, if agreed upon, with any medical practitioner you may be working with, such as, your psychiatrist and physician? Keep in mind that a psychologist is required to obtain your written permission before he/she releases any information to another professional or agency on your behalf.
8. What are their record keeping policies? You have the right to access your psychologist's records pertaining to you.

If you have additional questions, please contact the College of Alberta Psychologists at 1-800-659-0857 or visit their website at www.cap.ab.ca.