Getting Started
When starting a new therapeutic journey, it's helpful to understand what to expect during our first three sessions together and the journey ahead.
Your First Three Sessions
It's tempting to want to walk into the first session with a problem and expect to walk out with a solution. Instead, think about our first three sessions as building the foundation for our work together.
First Session
We will go over all of your intake forms and set ground rules. I will listen carefully to understand where you are coming from and start forming ideas about where we can go together.
Second Session
This session takes a bit longer as we discuss what I heard from you, explore options to move forward, and set clear expectations for our work together.
Third Session
After a brief discussion around the commitments we are both making, we will get to work on your therapeutic journey.
Building Trust Takes Time
Trust plays a key role in any relationship and is a particularly important ingredient for counseling to be effective. Trust takes time to develop, and it's important to understand that our work together will grow in strength as trust deepens.
The Therapeutic Journey
Many people start therapy at their lowest point in life. The work in therapy might make you feel worse before you feel better, but sustained improvements take time and commitment.
"According to the APA, for half of the people who seek therapy, it takes an average of 15 to 20 sessions for them to start feeling better"
It May Get Harder Before It Gets Easier
The "Valley of Disillusionment" is normal. As you begin addressing deep issues, you may feel worse temporarily. This is part of the healing process.
Commitment Leads to Lasting Change
Research shows it takes 15-20 sessions on average to start feeling better. Sustainable change requires patience and continued work even after you notice improvements.
Progress Isn't Always Linear
You'll experience ups and downs along the way. Each person's journey is unique, and that's perfectly normal.
Common Challenges Along the Way
Every person is wonderfully made and very unique. Each of us trusts, shares, and takes risks at our own pace. However, there are some common "danger zones" to be aware of during your therapeutic journey.
High Expectations
In the first few months, you may feel the bar is too high and worry you'll never make it. Remember, my goal is to see you achieve yours!
Darkest Before Dawn
Therapy is hard work, and there's often a period where it feels darkest before the dawn. You might feel like giving up during this time.
Stopping Too Soon
Many people stop when they start feeling better. Noticeable change often signals that sustainable change is just around the corner.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
I'm looking forward to meeting you during your initial consultation and excited about the opportunity to guide you through this journey.
Schedule Your Free Consultation