What to Expect at Our First Meeting

First sessions are often difficult and stressful, and knowing what to expect can help. We typically meet for 60 minutes for the first meeting. I will ask you what made you decide to come in for an appointment. You then let me know.  It’s all right not to have full and complete answers. I will be asking you questions and I encourage you to ask me questions as well. The goal is that by the end of this meeting, I’ll have the best possible understanding of why you’re here and what your needs are. It helps if you pay attention to what you’re feeling in the initial meeting, because you’re also trying to determine if this is a good fit for you.

Here is a list of some typical issues that clients come in to talk to me about:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression and Sadness
  • Developing Self Compassion
  • Relationship Problems
  • Self-Esteem
  • Overachievement
  • Family of Origin Issues
  • Parenting
  • Cultural Identity & Acculturation
  • LGBTQIA Issues
  • Grief and Loss
  • Life Transitions

I like to leave 10 minutes or so at the end of the initial session to make a plan as to where to go from here. If I find that I don’t have the resources or expertise to be the best therapist for you, I provide you with referrals and recommendations.