What can I expect in the initial appointment?
The initial appointment is unique as compared to future therapy sessions. The main objectives of this appointment are 1) understand the reason for seeking therapy now, 2) develop a broader appreciation for the client’s life to put the current situation in context, and 3) begin to collaboratively develop a treatment plan based on both clinical and spiritual hope for change. All of this happens in a brief span of 90 minutes. The more a client can prepare in advance (see Forms on the Contact page of this website), the more useful this time will be to helping clients establish and reach their therapy goals.
What do future sessions look like?
A standard therapy session is 50 minutes in duration.
How long will therapy take?
That greatly depends on how quickly we identify the primary challenge, as sometimes an individual is either not aware of or not able to communicate effectively what is troubling them. Furthermore, the client’s level of commitment between sessions has a dramatic effect on the progress made in psychotherapy. It is important to enter psychotherapy with an understanding that it is a journey. If the solution were quick and simple, you no doubt would have already found it on your own. It is my firm opinion that my job is to work my way out of a job, as you come to a better understanding of yourself and are better equipped to apply this understanding to a satisfying and healthy life. Therefore, we will check-in regularly and collaboratively determine the progress toward current goals and set future goals.