What to Expect
It is common for those new to therapy to feel both excitement and fear about starting the process. Do not let feelings of discomfort keep you from beginning what can be a life changing experience. Therapy helps to open our minds, improve our relationships, and help us live the happiest, most fulfilled life we can. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, but it takes a lot of courage to take the first step. In order to help ease the process I’ve put together some information so you know what to expect.
Free 15 minute phone Consultation
It is extremely important you find a therapist you connect with and can trust. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to all prospective clients. This is a chance for us to connect and see if we might be a good fit. If I’m not the best fit for you, I’m always happy to recommend someone else.
During your free phone consultation, I’ll ask you to briefly share what brings you to therapy. I’ll also share some information about the type of therapy I use and provide some logistical information about my fee, office locations, etc. At the end of our conversation, you may choose to think about our conversation or go ahead and schedule your first session. Schedule your free 15 minute phone consultation now.
Completing Documents and Getting Set Up
After you schedule your initial appointment, I will send you an email through my secure, HIPPA compliant portal called Simple Practice. Just click on the link in the email and create a password. From there you will be asked to enter some information and to complete your new client paperwork electronically. Please complete all paperwork prior to your appointment.
First Appointment
During your first therapy session, it is all about getting to know more about you, what brought you in, what you would like to get out of therapy and most importantly, building a trusting relationship. As a compassionate and empathic listener I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in which your unique story can be told. Please make sure to read information about confidentiality and limits of confidentiality in the new client forms. Since you sign the forms prior to your first appointment, I will assume you have read all the information and we won’t waste time reviewing the forms during your session. Instead, I will begin by asking you for more information about what brings you in and getting to know you as a person. Following this session, we will begin working on creating the changes that you want to see in your life.
Process
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques which I’m able to draw from depending on the particular issues brought into therapy. For individual therapy, I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Based Therapy. For couples therapy, I primarily use the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). For children, I typically use play therapy and art therapy techniques in conjunction with CBT.