What it’s like to start therapy with me
Starting therapy can be intimidating! There can be a lot of mystery around what therapy is, and what it’s like to “start therapy” with someone new. In order to de-mystify that process, I want to give you a better sense of what you can expect when you meet me for therapy - from that initial call, all the way to the first session.
The Initial Call
I offer a free 20-minute consultation call for all potential new clients. I do this for a couple different reasons. First, it’s important for both of us to get a better sense of what you’re looking for in a therapist and in the therapeutic process. Just like I’m hoping to get a better sense of you, it’s important for you to get a better sense of me, my style, and how it feels to be in conversation with each other. Here are the typical questions I ask during an initial call:
Your pronouns and any identities that feel important to share in our first conversation
What brings you to therapy? This doesn’t have to be an exhaustive history! Usually, I ask folx to tell me in a few sentences what they hope to get out of therapy and themes of what they’re hoping to work on
What are you looking for in a therapist?
I’ll also answer any initial questions folx have about myself. This often includes what modalities and lenses I use, how I structure sessions, and whether I have experience or expertise in various issues.
Again, this initial call is a great chance for us both to check in about whether we feel like we’ll be a good fit for each other.
The Initial Session
The initial session can feel intimidating. After all, you’re going into a space where you’re going to talk about yourself, your history, and your feelings. And you’re also getting to know me and the therapeutic container. That’s a lot! I get it and I’ve been there as a client, too. Something I always tell folx about the first session: It’s ok to take it slow. I don’t need to know everything all at once - not only is that not trauma-informed, that’s just not possible in a single session! Think of the first session as laying a solid, safe foundation. Here are some things you can expect in a first session with me:
Prior to our first session, I send out an initial questionnaire. None of the questions are mandatory. You get to choose what you share with me initially. I always ask folx to use the lens of: What will help you feel seen as we begin our work together? What helps you establish a sense of safety? This question is different for everyone. Some folx like me to know a lot upfront about their background, their family, and their life story. Other folx prefer to let this unfold with me over the course of many sessions.
I ask in more depth about your goals for therapy. This helps both of us establish a foundation for our future work together.
I ask questions about how you feel seen and heard, what a safe space feels like for you. My goal is to co-create a container that begins to feel safe, collaborative, and nourishing for our work together.
We talk about what brings you joy. Therapy isn’t just a space to talk about your problems. It’s a space to feel into joy, to feel into your strengths, and to understand and appreciate all that’s gotten you to that first session with me.
I give you space to ask me questions.
It’s ok to feel nervous about reaching out to start therapy. I get it, and I’m here with you each step of the way. If you have more questions, email me or book a free consult online.
