The first session is a chance for me to get to know you and begin understanding what’s bringing you in. Some clients come in with a clear idea of what they want to work on, while others feel unsure where to start. Both are completely okay, and you can share as much as you're comfortable sharing. 

In the first couple of sessions, I'll ask questions about your current concerns, background, relationships, coping strategies, and what you hope to get out of therapy. My understanding of how I can help evolves the more I learn about you. 

We may also discuss goals for therapy, frequency of sessions, and whether it feels like a good fit moving forward. My goal is to create a space that feels supportive, collaborative, and comfortable enough to talk openly about what you’re experiencing.

As treatment continues, how we start the session is your choice. You may choose to start the conversation, or I can - I may check in on concepts, concerns, or goals we previously discussed, or an action step or tool we discussed you experimenting with outside of the session. Or, we may choose to set an "agenda" if there are multiple topics to explore. 

I may offer evidence-based information on the concerns you're coming to treatment for. I'll ask questions to help you arrive at your own conclusions, or offer an alternative perspective. We may slow things down to better understand what you’re experiencing internally. I may offer to facilitate a short mindfulness meditation to help keep you grounded. 

We may explore barriers that may be keeping you stuck and identify small, realistic changes or strategies to experiment with between sessions. If relevant, I may occasionally ask if you'd like a handout or tracking tool to support the work we're doing, though it is always your choice whether you use them.

Session Frequency & Scheduling

Therapy works best when it is consistent enough to support continuity, reflection, and skill-building between sessions. Session frequency varies based on your needs and goals, though therapy is typically most effective when sessions occur on a recurring basis. Some clients attend weekly, while others prefer biweekly or less frequent sessions. We can discuss what may feel most supportive for you and adjust over time as needed.