Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or returning after a break, understanding the therapy process can provide clarity and confidence for your next steps.

Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

Initial Consultation: Once you reach out to me, we will set up a free 30-minute consultation, where you can ask me any questions you may have and where we can both determine the goodness of fit. If either of us determines that it is not a good fit, then I will do what I can to provide you with the resources and referrals necessary for next steps.

Initial Intake Assessment: This is the starting point of therapy where the I will gather information about your history, current challenges, and goals for therapy. Over the course of the first few sessions, we will collaborate to set achievable goals for your sessions. These goals can be revised as therapy progresses. 

We will decide together on a regular appointment day, time, and frequency. The frequency of sessions usually starts out weekly at first, unless otherwise discussed, and then can transition to every two weeks or once a month, depending on your needs. The length of therapy depends your needs.

Course of Therapy: Once a foundation is laid and a strong therapeutic alliance is established, I will teach you some coping skills and strategies to regulate how you feel and gain insights into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Once you feel armed and ready, we can delve into exploring feelings, beliefs, behaviors, and past experiences that might be contributing to your current challenges. The pace and depth of exploration are tailored to your comfort and readiness.

Application in Real Life: The insights and tools learned in therapy are meant to be applied outside the therapy room. I have a wealth of information and resources to provide you. Depending on your preferences, you can work on insights gained in therapy in between sessions. This may involve reading and writing assignments, practicing new behaviors, journaling, art projects, or trying out new coping mechanisms in real-life scenarios (i.e., exposures).

Review and Feedback: Periodically, we will review your progress, highlight your wins, and reassess your goals. This keeps therapy on track and ensures that both the we are aligned in their understanding and expectations. I also highly encourage my clients to provide me with feedback so that I continue to adapt treatment to your needs and preferences.

Termination: At some point, you will achieve your goals, and you can decide whether you are ready to terminate therapy. At this time, we will review your progress, and identify supports that will help you maintain your progress. This phase is not an abrupt end, but rather a gradual process where both parties discuss the journey, achievements, and any potential future challenges. That said, you can choose to terminate therapy at any time.

Maintenance and Follow-up: Some therapists might offer follow-up sessions or check-ins to ensure clients remain on track. This is an opportunity to discuss any new challenges and reaffirm the strategies learned during therapy. Should my schedule allow, you can reinstate therapy services at any time.