Below are some of the questions I often hear from people searching for a therapist to work with. I also find that they usually prefer to ask these questions in person. With that in mind, I offer a free 20-minute consultation as way for us to meet and explore whether we would be a good fit to work together. 

 

I've never been in counseling or therapy before. What is the process?

 

Usually, with new clients I recommend setting up a free 20-minute consultation in my office. That way you can see how you feel in the space, explore whether you feel comfortable with me and my style, and tell me a little bit about what you are looking for. I don't work with all issues or age groups so this time also gives me the opportunity to consider whether I believe I am a good fit for you as well. 

 

If it feels like a good fit, we then schedule a first session which is the "intake session" lasting 60 minutes. Sessions after the initial intake usually run 50 minutes, with some clients choosing to book longer sessions (75 to 90 minutes). These longer sessions do incur higher fees which we will discuss at the consultation or intake. There are two types of paperwork we need to complete at the intake session: 1) a disclosure statement outlining your rights, and 2)  client information questionairre, which you are encourage will fill out as much as you comfortable.

 

Clients individually choose how often to come in for sessions. Some prefer the support of weekly meetings, while others prefer the time between sessions every other week. Frequency of meeting is something we can discuss in session as I may have recommendations regarding how often we meet. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

 

I'm nervous about meeting with a therapist for the first time...

 

Being nervous when we meet someone for the first time is perfectly natural, let alone someone we are considering sharing inner most secrets with. Honestly, I'm usually a little nervous meeting a new client for the first time as well. My style of working is to begin slowly so that you can start to feel comfortable with me as the therapist you choose to work with. It takes time for a comfort level to develop. Even clients who have worked with other therapists need time to know that my office is a safe place to share.

 

I'm not an artist, do I have to do art therapy?

 

No, absolutely not. You do not have to do art therapy. Art therapy is one of the modalities I offer and it is not the only way I work. My style as a therapist is to use a mixture of techniques depending on you and what issues you are working on. There are times when I may get an intuition that expressing something through making art may be a good way to explore an issue, and I will then make that suggestion to you. In the end it is up to you whether or not you accept my suggestion. There are always multiple ways to explore an issue.

 

I see you specialize in Counseling for Women. Do you work with men?

 

Yes, I have worked with, and continue to work with, a number of male clients. Many of the issues I work with are women's issues (infertility, menopause, pregnancy loss). I find my work tends draws women more often than men. And men also experience many of the other issues I work with including depression, anxiety, aging, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and spiritual exploration.

 

I welcome new male clients who would like to explore working with me.

 

What other questions do you have? 

Call (970) 420-2516 to schedule your free consultation.