Most people wait until they're in crisis before looking for help. That's a bad time to make hiring decisions. Here's what I've learned from vetting dozens of clinicians.
Red Flags in Quotes
If someone won't give you a straight number over email or phone, walk. Vague ranges like 'between $150 and $250' mean you'll get the high end. Anyone who charges a cancellation fee that's more than half the session cost is signaling they value their time over yours. Supervised interns or associates who charge near full rate are a ripoff unless they have a very specific niche. Group practices that hide per-session costs behind a 'free consultation' call are wasting your time.
Red Flags in Communication
Slow reply times before money changes hands means worse response later. If they answer only during business hours and never weekends, fine, but tell you that upfront. Vague bios filled with buzzwords like 'holistic' or 'trauma-informed' without specifics about what they actually do: that's a sign they don't know how to describe their own work. One-word answers to your intake questions mean they're not listening.
Red Flags in Contracts
Look for clauses that let them change fees with 24 hours notice. Or that require you to sign away rights to dispute charges. A contract that's six pages long for a single client is a control document, not a working agreement. If they won't let you take a copy home to read, that's a hard no. Also watch for language that says they can terminate you for any reason but you can't leave without 30 days notice.
How to Protect Yourself
Always ask for a brief written estimate before the first session. Request a clear refund policy for pre-paid packages. Keep your own notes on what you discussed and what was promised. If you're paying out of pocket, get a superbill or receipt every time. Trust your gut. If something feels off in the first conversation, it won't get better. You can always find another clinician.
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