1. Speak with the prospective providers on the phone.

2. Ask them how much experience they have in working with the issue or issues you seek help with.

3. A provider need not have gone through what you have been through to be helpful, but he or she needs to convey an initial understanding of how your experience is now affecting your life. 

4. If you are a veteran and have an obvious physical injury (like prosthetic limbs), tell the provider about this so that he or she can begin to understand what you have experienced physically. This exchange will also help you assess the provider’s comfort with your situation.

5. Ask the provider what his or her understanding of the military experience is.  Providers may not be familiar with the military culture, but they must demonstrate a willingness to understand your culture and experience.

The answer to these questions should give you a sense of whether you will be comfortable with a provider.

A comfortable relationship with a provider is an important factor in the success of counseling.