Approach

First Session

Our first session is the initial in-take where I gather important background info such as family, medical, and mental health history that is pertinent for me to gather prior to starting therapy. In addition, we will sign documents that give me consent to treat you and releases to obtain information if necessary. We will also go over your rights as a client, how I protect your health information, and the office policies/procedures.

The first couple of sessions I spend learning more about you, your immediate family, and extended family. I do this because I feel that in order for me to understand you better, it is helpful to know what your family of origin was like. For example, I like to know about your role in the family, patterns of communication within your family, and any significant events that may have had an effect on the person you are now.

After 3 or 4 sessions, we will evaluate if this therapeutic relationship is a good fit for you. If you do not feel that I am the right fit for your needs, you have the right to terminate therapy at any time, in which case I will refer you to at least one other provider upon your request if appropriate and possible. On the contrary, if I feel that your issues are outside the scope of my ability, I will refer you to a provider who has the specialization needed to help you. It is very important to have a trusting therapeutic relationship to reach your goals.

Therapeutic Relationship

I strive to offer a safe, relaxing environment that you can feel validated and supported in. Therapy requires your involvement, honesty, and openness in order to explore and change your thoughts, feelings, and/or behavior. Together we will formulate a treatment plan that captures the goals you would like to achieve. Sometimes, more than one approach can be helpful in dealing with a certain situation or achieving your goals. During therapy, remembering or talking about unpleasant events or feelings can result in experiencing discomfort or strong feelings of sadness, worry, and/or anger. In addition, some of your symptoms may become worse before they become better. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment to help you work through these negative feelings to the best of my ability. Together, we can achieve your goals and I will help you see that is as simple as “Mind Over Matter.”