I realize it takes courage to make that initial contact. Reaching out to a professional counselor is a way of saying Life is tough right now and I could use some extra help. Not always an easy thing to admit.

It's my heartfelt desire to create a safe, welcoming, non-judgmental environment.  One in which you feel heard and understood.  A place where you can freely express, process, discover and heal.  

You can expect your first visit to be a time of getting to know each other.  I’ll ask you about your reasons for seeking counseling, current symptoms and stressors, medications you’re taking, etc.  Please feel free to share with me during this time any life history events that may be relevant to your reason for coming in.  Perhaps you’ll have questions for me as well.  It’s my hope that we’ll make a connection during this first meeting that will pave the way for us to work together on establishing a direction for future sessions.

Please remember, therapy is not a "quick fix".  While it's not my goal to draw you into an extended, indefinite, long-term commitment, keep in mind emotional healing is a journey.  My role as your therapist is to walk alongside you in this journey for this season as an advocate, an intercessor and a collaborator.