The First Meeting

Interested in what happens during an initial consultation?

Perhaps you are wondering what a first appointment would look like? It may be that you imagine laying on a couch and talking about whatever comes to mind (that sounds awful by the way, and my couch is not large enough for anyone to lay on). Or you may think that a therapist will respond to everything you say with a serious nod, a solemn look, and then say (in a whispered tone) "I see, tell me more." This page will give you a little information about what to expect, and if you have other questions, feel free to give me a call. I’m glad to answer whatever questions you have about the first meeting.

Step One:

After an appointment date has been set you will receive some paperwork requesting basic information (this takes about ten minutes to fill out). Completing this prior to the first meeting will give us more time to focus on what matters most when you arrive at my office.

Step Two:

During that first meeting, we will talk about your counseling goals: what you would like to accomplish in our work together. We will also discuss how the current challenges you are facing first began to appear, the impact they have had on your life, and what solutions you have already tried. Importantly, we need to consider the strengths you bring to the task of making significant, lasting changes.

Step Three:

When someone looks for a therapist, they have questions: "Have you worked with people who have this concern?": "Where were you trained?": "What approach do you take?" and so forth. It's important that your questions are answered, so we will be sure to set aside some time for that during the first appointment as well.

Step Four: 

Toward the end of our first meeting, we will discuss a general plan regarding how to move forward with solving those problems that are most important to you. Many of the people I work with decide to schedule another appointment at that time. Others prefer to give it some thought. Either approach is fine.