Before We Meet

What to expect
I would encourage you to think of our first session as a consultation with no strings attached. I will do my best to understand you and the unique concerns that bring you in. At the end of the session we will decide if psychotherapy seems like a viable treatment option that should be explored further. If so, then we will schedule 1-2 additional evaluation sessions. Time invested during this evaluation period to more fully understand you and your specific concerns is typically time well spent in the long run.

At the end of the evaluation period I will offer recommendations about potential treatment options and some initial thoughts about what psychotherapy with me would look like, if that were recommended. It is important for you to feel comfortable with your future therapist. It is also important for your future therapist to have the skills and experience necessary to treat your specific concerns. If we agree that a good match exists between us in these ways, then we will schedule future therapy sessions. If not, then I will provide you with referrals to other services or qualified professionals who may be better suited to help you.

Forms
The beginning of our first session will be spent reviewing forms that address issues such as confidentiality, billing, the therapy process, and more. Copies of the forms will be available on a clipboard in the waiting room prior to your initial session. Please arrive at least 20 minutes early so that you can look over the forms before the session begins.

Alternatively, copies of the forms are provided on the right side of this page for your convenience. You can download them, print them out and review them before coming to the office if you wish. Obviously you do not need to arrive early for the first session if you select this option. Please do not sign them until we have had a chance to discuss them and make sure that you understand them. Information on the Intake Form is helpful, but not mandatory, to have completed for the first session. Please complete as much of it as you feel comfortable doing. We can discuss any questions or concerns you may have when we meet.