A help resource for my list of [[Therapist tips and tricks]]. Response to initial contact should always be: “Thank you so much for reaching out.” During intake, always ask if there was a referral source, so you can thank them!  Initial contact questions:  - What are the client’s expectations about therapy? - Are there any concerns about starting therapy? - What motivates them to come to therapy / is there a referral source? - Why do they want to come to therapy now? - Would this be their first time in therapy? Are there any considerations we (the clinic/practice/agency) should take when scheduling you with a therapist? (Preference in languages spoken/race/gender/sexual orientation/sexual identity) **Questions to ask during first session** - What brings you in today? - Have you already tried anything to work on this? - Have you been to therapy before? - Any use of substances? (Looking for potential abuse)