you found a mental health provider on inclusive therapists or another directory now what? here are some scripts to help you get started!

Things to keep in mind:

this is not yet your therapist/psychiatrist/etc so they do not need the full story yet; save your energy, use appropriate boundaries, and only share what is necessary at first
identify what information you are needing from them
for the initial reach out you are likely only needing to know the following: if they are taking new clients, if they might be the right fit for what you’re looking for, and what the next steps are
if applicable, state any related care you are currently receiving

for a group practice:

“hi, i found this group via (google/ig/directory/etc) and i am curious to see if there is a (therapist/psychiatrist/play therapist/etc) that might fit my needs and is taking new clients. i am looking for someone to help with (briefly describe) and i am needing (insurance/appointments at a specific time/etc). please let me know what the next steps are for getting matched with someone! thank you.”

for an individual provider:

“hi, i found your website via (google/ig/directory/etc). i am looking to work with someone on (briefly describe) and i am needing (insurance/appointments at specific time/etc). let me know if you’re accepting new clients and what the next steps are! thank you.”

your therapist suggested you add someone to your care team:

“hi, i found your website via (google/ig/directory/etc). I am working with a therapist on (briefly describe) and we think it might be a good idea to add a (provider type) to my care team. let me know if you’re accepting new clients and what the next steps are! thank you.”

you’re curious about sliding scale:

add to any of the above: “due to economic barriers at this time i can not sustainably afford your listed rate. if you work on a sliding scale and have any openings i would like to discuss the options. thank you.”

take what you want and leave the rest.

How to email providers