What to Expect in a 15-Minute Consultation with a Therapist
| Amority Health
By: Rachel Cooper, MS, LPC-Associate
Supervised by Amber Quaranta Leech, PHD, LPC-S
For: Amority Health - Blog - Shifting Perceptions
A low-pressure way to explore support; here’s how it works, how to prepare, and what you might feel along the way.
In this article:
Curious about therapy but not sure where to start? A 15-minute consultation with a therapist is a low-pressure, supportive way to explore if working together is the right fit. This short call gives you space to ask questions, share what’s bringing you in, and ease into the process at your own pace.
The First Step: A Brief Pause on the Trail
Reaching out to a therapist for the first time can feel like standing at the edge of a dense forest; you may feel the pull to enter but hesitate at the uncertainty. What if it’s overwhelming? What if you’re not ready? A 15-minute consultation is like meeting a guide at the trailhead. You’re not committing to the full journey, just having a conversation about what the path might look like, and whether it feels right for you.
🌷This brief meeting, often free or low-cost, is a way to explore comfort and connection with a therapist; two essential parts of successful therapy.
What Happens During the Call?
A consultation is not a therapy session. It's a short, collaborative space to get a feel for:
You can expect questions like:
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“What’s bringing you in at this time?”
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“Have you worked with a therapist before?”
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“What kind of support are you looking for right now?”
You’re also encouraged to ask your own questions, such as:
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“What’s your approach with anxiety, grief, or life transitions?”
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“How do you structure sessions?”
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“Do you have experience with…?”
🌷No preparation is required, but some quiet reflection beforehand can help clarify what you want from the call.
How to Prepare (If you would like to)
You don’t need to tell your whole life story in 15 minutes. Just bring your present self.
Here are a few things to consider before the call:
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What prompted me to reach out today?
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What feels hard right now, or unclear?
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What kind of support am I hoping for?
You might feel a bit nervous. You might even wonder:
“What if I don’t know what to say?”
“What if I get emotional?”
“What if they don’t get it?”
These are all normal thoughts. This space is meant to meet you exactly where you are and not where you think you should be.
The Benefits of a 15-Minute Consultation
In just a few minutes, you can get a sense of whether this therapist feels like someone you could trust and trust is the foundation of therapy.
Many people say the hardest part of starting therapy is making the first call. A consultation can turn “I don’t know what to expect” into “That wasn’t so bad.”
Therapists have different personalities, specializations, and communication styles. You deserve to find someone who feels right for you.
If You’re Feeling Uncertain… That’s Okay
Some people worry:
“What if I don’t click with them?”
“Will they think my problem is too small or too big?”
“I’m not even sure what I need.”
These thoughts are not signs you’re not ready. They’re signs you care. Therapy isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about showing up and allowing space for your thoughts, feelings, and questions.
The Real Purpose of the Call
At its core, this call is about connection. It’s a moment to pause, check your internal compass, and consider whether this person might be someone you want alongside you as you navigate whatever lies ahead.
You don’t have to commit. You don’t have to share more than you’re comfortable with. You’re allowed to say, “I’ll think about it,” and revisit it when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Starting therapy is a personal and often emotional decision. A 15-minute consultation won’t solve everything, but it can be a powerful, validating first step.
🌷Think of it not as a door you’re locking behind you but as one you’re gently opening, just wide enough to see what’s possible on the other side.
Ready to explore the next step?
Book a free 15-minute consultation
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Curious to explore more?
We have other blog posts that look at how shifting perception can help with everyday struggles, relationships, and deeper understanding.
Written by Rachel Cooper, a therapist specializing in burnout, perfectionism, and life transitions. Learn more about therapy for high achievers at Amority Health.
