Getting Started
If this is your first time in therapy, we will spend some time discussing what therapy is, what your expectations of it are, and what you hope to accomplish. If you are returning to therapy we will discuss what has and hasn't worked for you in the past with other therapists. Our first few sessions will involve evaluating your history, concerns, goals, and needs. After this initial period we will discuss my impressions of how our work might proceed, in addition to discussing your own comfort level with how things are going.
We will work together to discuss your concerns, explore the resolutions you hope to find, and work out a plan towards getting better and living better. I will provide you support, encouragement, insights, observations, and challenges but ultimately it will be your decision as to what changes you will choose to make.
If we both feel we are well-matched, we will continue to schedule weekly appointments. Throughout the course of our time together we will periodically review your progress.
If you feel something is not working out or things don't feel right, it is my hope you will want to discuss that with me before requesting changes in treatment. I understand that other forms of or approaches to therapy may be more useful, and your input is always respected.
I view therapy as a collaborative process, where you and I work together in a safe environment to define your treatment goals; clarify your thoughts, beliefs, and values; consider new ways of being in the world and with others; develop healthier strategies for relating to yourself and others; and work through past and present losses and traumas.
Entering into therapy with a clinician who is skilled, empathic, understanding, and non-judgmental is a critical component to a successful therapeutic experience. Since therapy is a big commitment, it is important to choose your therapist carefully. I offer a 10-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit.
I prefer to set up initial consultations over the phone.
I answer my phone Monday - Friday and return calls within 48 hours. You may leave a voicemail for me at any time.
INTAKE SESSION FORM
In the first session we will review your paperwork together so that together we can better understand what's bringing you into therapy.
