What to Expect
Taking the step to seek therapy is a brave and important decision! It is natural to feel a mix of emotions as you prepare for your initial appointment. Whether this is your first time to therapy or your have been in counseling before, I would like to provide some information so you will know what to expect during your initial counseling session and beyond.
1
Initial Intake/Assessment
During this session I introduce myself and will go over paperwork (policies, confidentiality, how to reach me between sessions and cancellation policy). Once we go over "house-keeping," we will then dive into the assessment phase. I will ask questions to better understand your background, symptoms you may. be experiencing, and will ask the reason for which you have sought counseling. I will then ask about goals you would like to work towards or things you would like to improve.
2
Goals and Treatment Planning
This session is a deeper dive into goals. We will explore background related to goals as well as look at symptoms and potential connections. I will then tailor my treatment plan to your specific needs. I utilize an integrative approach, meaning I use different therapies together to meet the client's needs for healing.
3
Sessions
Sessions after will then depend on what we are working on or what the client is experiencing that specific day and time. I am client centered, meaning "I go where the client goes" or I tailor my session to the needs of the client. If we have planned something for next session, however you may be experiencing stress or need to address something else, we go with what you need in that moment and will save what we have planned for another session.
4
Discharge
Once you have reached your goals and there is marked changed, we begin discussing discharge. This means you feel grounded in yourself as well as in your healing journey and will be leaving therapy. We review your progress and time in therapy/coping skills, address any concerns or questions, and I will be a resource if you may need therapy in the future.