What should I expect in getting started?
Generally when someone reaches out to set up therapy with me, we first cover logistics, such as scheduling and payments. Next, we would set up a 20 minute phone or in-person consultation in order to determine if we are the right fit. You can ask me any questions you have about the way I work or the therapy process. And I can get to know your situation and determine if I would be able to meet the needs of what your seeking. If we decide it’s a good fit, I would give you information for completing initial paperwork in my client portal. Completion of that information confirms our first appointment. If we are not the best fit, I can offer referrals of other therapist that might be able to better meet your needs. The first few therapy appointments are better understanding your circumstances, gathering background information and setting goals for therapy.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own.
People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. I find that attending consistently is also most beneficial and effective, otherwise we usually just end up playing catch up and don’t have as much time to get to the therapy work. Since we only see each other for a session a week, it’s mostly the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.
My partner and I are having problems. Should we be in individual counseling or couples therapy?
I only work with individual adults. I personally feel if you are wanting to work on your relationship it helps to work with someone who specializes in couples therapy, and this is not my area of expertise. If you are concerned about your relationship, we could work together to identify your concerns and explore your part in those dynamics and/or I could refer you to a couples counselor. Sometimes it helps for each person to be working in individual therapy and couples therapy at the same time. Though, I know that is not always an option. You may want to consider if you are wanting to prioritize changing your behavior/reactions in the relationship or prioritize what is happening between you and your partner.