When someone reaches out for therapy, it’s often the first step toward healing — but it can also feel overwhelming. At Middle Path Counseling MO/KS, we want to make sure each client feels supported and matched with the right therapist and services from the very beginning. That’s where our Screening Process comes in.
A screening is your first conversation with one of our team members before beginning therapy. It’s a chance for us to learn more about you, your goals, and your needs — and to ensure we’re the best fit for you.
🌿 What Happens During a Screen
During your screening, we’ll walk through a few key questions designed to help us understand your background, preferences, and current situation. This isn’t a test — it’s a conversation focused on connection and clarity.
Here’s what we’ll typically ask:
- What brings you to our practice?
We want to understand what led you to seek therapy and what you hope to gain from the process. - Have you received similar services elsewhere before?
If so, we’ll talk about what worked well (and what didn’t) so we can tailor your care appropriately. - Is there a particular style you are looking for in therapy or from a therapist?
Some clients prefer a more structured, skills-based approach with homework, while others prefer a collaborative, conversational style. Sharing your preferences helps us find the right fit. - Have you been referred to our practice by another healthcare professional?
If yes, we’ll coordinate care as needed to ensure continuity and support. - Are you currently taking any medications or undergoing other treatments?
This helps us understand any factors that may impact your therapy and collaborate effectively with other providers. - Are there any financial considerations we should be aware of?
We’ll discuss your payment options, insurance coverage, and ways to make therapy accessible and sustainable. - Are there any legal proceedings related to the services you’re seeking?
If applicable, we’ll review these details confidentially to ensure proper documentation and ethical care. - Is there anything else you’d like to share before we proceed?
This open-ended question gives space for anything not yet discussed — your story matters to us.
⚖️ Brief Suicide and Self-Harm Assessment
As part of every screening, we include a brief suicide and self-harm assessment to ensure your immediate safety and identify the right level of care. If risk factors are present, our clinicians will discuss a plan for additional support, safety measures, and follow-up options. Your safety is our top priority.
Is the Client a Good Fit for Telehealth?
Many clients appreciate the flexibility of online therapy. During your screening, we’ll determine whether telehealth or in-person sessions are the best fit for your comfort, privacy, and treatment goals.
Matching You with the Right Clinician
Once we’ve gathered this information, we’ll match you with the clinician who best fits your needs, availability, and treatment preferences.
We also confirm:
- ✅ Whether you have a follow-up appointment scheduled
- ✅ Whether DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) have been reviewed and discussed
- ✅ Whether group options have been shared and explored
- ✅ Whether the match feels like a good fit for both you and your clinician
The Middle Path Difference
At Middle Path Counseling, our goal is not just to get you started — it’s to get you started right.
We believe in intentional care, matching clients with therapists who truly align with their goals and needs. Whether you’re beginning your journey with DBT, EMDR, or general therapy, our screening process ensures that you’re supported from day one.
Ready to begin?
Schedule your screening today at http://www.middlepathmo.com or call/text 816.500.2070.
Let’s take the first step — together.
All Screenings are Done via Telehealth and typically last 30 Minutes.
Middle Path Counseling MO 