My approach
Finding the right therapist to help with your problems can be confusing. You’ll see terms like “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,” “Relational Therapy,” “Solution-focused therapy,” “Mindfulness,” and many others. So how do you know which type is right for you?
While I have received extensive training over the years on a variety of therapeutic approaches, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. My main concern is to respect your comfort level while meeting the goals you have defined. Think of it less as “lying on a couch being analyzed’ and instead more of a goal-focused conversation.
What to expect
One of the most commons questions I get during phone consultations is, “What will my first appointment be like?” Here is what to expect. First, I will tell you, if you’re nervous – most people are! You’ll feel better by the end of the session.
Then, you’ll need to have your insurance card (or payment method if you’re not using insurance), and we’ll review some paperwork, including your identifying information, HIPAA terms, and my business practices. This takes about 10 minutes.
Then, we will discuss what prompted you to seek counseling services, and what you’re hoping to gain from counseling. Finally, if we have time at the end of the session, we’ll come up with a plan to help you arrive at your goals, and we’ll set up your next appointment.
If your appointment is concerning a child or an elderly parent, and you’re not sure whether they should be present at the first appointment, please talk to me when you schedule the appointment and we’ll decide the best route to take.