The first step

Starting therapy (whether for the first time or with a new therapist) can be nerve-racking. And that is totally normal - it’s natural for us as humans to want to know what we’re getting into. Let me tell you some about what you can expect with me, so you can feel a little less intimidated and more willing to take a step.

Once you reach out to me via email, I’ll respond to set a time for a 10-15 minute phone consultation. During this consult, we’ll talk very briefly about what brought you to therapy and I’ll introduce myself and share how I practice and might be able to help you meet your goals. You are also able to ask me any questions you may have as well. If you decide you’d like to set up an initial session with me, we’ll go ahead and do that. 

Usually, I like to schedule new clients so they can come in on a weekly basis at first, so this may mean there could be a bit of a wait until I can get you in. If you’re in crisis, though, we can find a spot for you to at least get started more quickly. If you choose not to work with me, that’s ok too! Finding a therapist should be a little like dating (but with less pressure or uncomfortable clothes); it’s ok to do consultations with lots of folks to find the right fit for you. And I am definitely not offended if I am not the right fit. Just let me know, and we’ll work together to find someone who is! The ultimate goal in all of this is YOUR health.

The first appointment

Prior to our first session, I will send you paperwork electronically to complete so when you actually walk through the door- we’re ready to get started! Our first few sessions will be very relaxed and conversational. I’ll get to know you as a person, not as the “person with a problem” before we start working. This will help me understand your background, relationships, habits, work life, hobbies, and general personality so that I can use the best approach for your needs. Our first few sessions are as “intense” as you’d like them to be. You don’t have to spill all the tea right away.

After those initial sessions, we will work towards identifying a goal and a plan of action. I don’t tell you what to do, I work with you as a team. Think of therapy as a boat; you’ve got the oars, and I’m just the rudder, helping you make the turns as you push forward. Your job is to take what you’ve learned in the office with me and translate it to your life in the “real” world, then bring it back so we can reflect and adjust as necessary.

Coming back

In general, you can expect to come into a clean, positively energetic space where you can wear whatever you want, kick your shoes off (or leave them on) and settle into the couch for a relaxed conversation. Sometimes the work may be hard, but I will always make sure you feel comfortable and “ok” before you leave the room for the day. And I promise the work will not get too hard too fast (unless we both feel you are ready for it).

Depending on what your needs are, you could be with me for six weeks or six months, but many people find it helpful to have a therapist for long term - or maintenance - care. We will decide together how often you’d like to come to therapy and when you are ready to decrease session frequency. I have several clients who, after learning and being able to implement all “the things” choose to come in once every other month or so just to check in and share what they’ve been doing.  People seem to find this accountability to be soothing, and it gives you a space to come back to if life throws something unexpected at you. Again, you lead the charge on this - I just help you decide what is best for you.