Questions to Ask Before Starting Therapy
Choosing a therapist is an important step. Asking a few thoughtful questions beforehand can help you feel more confident about whether someone is the right fit for you.
Am I a People-Pleaser?
People-pleasing means prioritizing others’ needs and approval over your own, often rooted in early conditional belonging. Signs include difficulty saying no and managing others’ emotions. Awareness and small boundaries help restore authenticity without abandoning care for others.
What is Congruence?
Congruence in Person-Centred Therapy means showing up authentically without masks. It builds trust, reduces defensiveness, and encourages genuine connection in therapy and everyday relationships. Being real with others helps us live more freely as our true selves.
What is Trauma?
From a person-centred perspective, trauma occurs when experiences overwhelm our ability to process emotions. Big T trauma involves major events like violence or disasters, while little t trauma stems from cumulative experiences such as neglect or criticism. Healing happens through empathetic, non-judgmental therapeutic relationships that restore self-trust.