Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect in the first session when I see a therapist?.

At our first session, I will tell you a little more about myself and my practice and how therapy ‘works’. Paperwork will be completed for privacy and confidentiality purposes. Afterward, I will complete an assessment, which entails me asking you various questions about yourself, your family, background, symptoms and ultimately what is bringing you in for therapy. Oftentimes the big questions are “what problems or concerns can I help you solve” as I believe therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist. etc. This time is also a way for us to begin to establish a rapport and connection. I understand it can be difficult to disclose personal information to a stranger, however I hope that this assessment can be comforting for you. I will never coerce you to say anything you don’t wish to, and generally have a pleasant, calm, sometimes humorous attitude which people have told me helps to ease this process. After the assessment, we will determine if you feel comfortable with me and wish to schedule additional therapy sessions for treatment. (generally, this is the process for an adult client)
If you are bringing your adolescent/preteen to see me, the process will be slightly different, as I will try to obtain family and background information from parents and adolescent equally. I find it imperative to give the teenager the space to speak freely and privately. I also discuss the importance of confidentiality and the laws that protect teenagers (14-17) in their ability to speak with me without concern I will disclose everything to family/parents. Confidentiality exclusions are also discussed to make sure it is clear what is protected information and what must be disclosed under law.