At our mental health practice, hiring the right therapist is about more than just qualifications on paper. To ensure our team consistently provides compassionate, effective care, we incorporate a unique element into our interview process: role play scenarios during the second interview.

Why Role Plays Matter

Therapy is deeply relational. Beyond clinical expertise, a therapist's ability to build rapport, demonstrate empathy, and respond thoughtfully to client concerns is essential for successful treatment. That's why we use role plays in our hiring process — they offer valuable insight into how a candidate interacts with clients in real-time.

During the second interview, candidates participate in a short role play where they respond to a random scenario. This exercise helps us assess important qualities such as:

• Empathy and Active Listening: How well does the candidate validate the client's feelings and experiences?

• Communication Skills: Are they clear, compassionate, and engaging in their responses?

• Adaptability: Can the candidate think on their feet and respond thoughtfully to unexpected situations?

• Boundaries and Professionalism: Does the candidate maintain appropriate boundaries while still being supportive?

What We’ve Observed

Therapists who excel in these role plays often go on to build strong, trusting relationships with their clients once hired. We’ve noticed that they tend to:

• Foster deeper connections, leading to more meaningful progress in therapy.

• Receive positive feedback and praise in client reviews.

• Consistently demonstrate the qualities we value most: empathy, professionalism, and adaptability.

A Commitment to Quality Care

By incorporating role plays into our interview process, we ensure that every therapist we bring on board aligns with our core values of compassionate, client-centered care. This step helps us maintain the highest standards in the services we provide, ensuring every client feels heard, supported, and empowered.