New Clients

Sometimes it can feel like a lot to start something new when you don’t know what to expect. Let me walk you through the process from start to finish.

The process of counseling often starts before you even contact me. You have likely noticed your own needs and determined (yourself or with the help of others) that you would like counseling services. Or maybe you are curious to try the process and see if it could be helpful.  Once you’ve looked around my site and decided that you would like to learn more or schedule, send me an email.

You’ll want to include some basic information. Don’t worry. If you don’t include something, I’ll ask you about it. I’ll need to know your insurance provider to ensure I am in network, some basics about your counseling needs, and general availability. If you are seeking counseling regarding your child, I’ll need their age and some basics about your concerns.

I will likely respond to your email within two business days. It’s just me in the office, so you’ll only be communicating with me, but that also means it might take me a bit longer to get back to you since I am also the person seeing clients during the day. Email is easiest to ensure I can reach you, but you can also call me (and likely leave a message). I will return your call at my earliest convenience.

I will let you know if I am accepting new clients and if so, some general availability that I have for open appointments to ensure we can find a time to schedule. If I’m not accepting new clients, I’ll let you know that I’m currently full. I’ll then provide you with some referrals in the community.

In order to schedule a first appointment, I’ll need your name and email. If counseling is for your minor child, I’ll also need their full name. Then I will send you a secure link to the client portal. There you’ll be able to add in your additional contact information, address, payment information, and insurance information. You’ll also sign intake forms. You’ll complete a standard questionnaire so I can have a little extra information about your needs before we meet.

You’ll want to verify your insurance benefits if you would like more information about your out of pocket costs. Depending on your insurance, you may have a copay, you may be required to pay the full contracted rate of services, or your insurance may entirely cover your portion.

With your completed forms, you’ll be ready for your appointment. I’ll help you set up the first appointment. If the appointment is regarding your child’s therapy services, the intake process will span two appointments. The first appointment will be a parent appointment. Your child will not attend this appointment. The second session will be with your child.  You can decide if you would like to have your session in person or via telehealth. Telehealth appointments are not preferred for most young children, but some adults find them more convenient. If you are a parent coming to a parent appointment with your child, I encourage you to attend in person if you are able to so I can show you around the office and let you see the play room.

In person appointments take place in my office. You’ll arrive a few minutes before your appointment time, and enter in the door on the left side of the front of the building. My office is the second door on the left. If you need the restrooms, continue around the corner before entering my suite. Inside my suite, you will be in a small waiting room. Have a seat, and I’ll be with you shortly.

In your first appointment, we will review intake information, your background and social history, and your current concerns and needs. Then we will come up with goals and frequency of services. Many people start with weekly services.

After that, you’ll continue services. Services are different for every person and family. You may find that you are able to accomplish your goals in a short time - maybe three months. Or you may have more needs and benefit from attending therapy for a year or more. There is no one-size-fits-all length of treatment. You are in control over how long you engage with services.

I’ll be with you through the entire process. If you have any questions, please reach out. No question is too small. I’d be happy to help you through the process.