Calling a therapist for the first time can be an intimidating process. I wish I could hold the hand of all of those seeking help and get them through this first step. I cannot speak for all therapists everywhere; but here is what happens when my phone rings…
- Well, we may play phone tag because I am not often able to answer my phone. If therapists are at work, we are normally in session (with people like you) with our phones on silent. Please DO leave a voicemail so I know it is a call I should be return. My phone number DOES except text messages; however data messages are not considered as secure as voice calls for privacy. But I always call/text people back.
- We talk about what is going on and why you reached out for therapy for 10 minutes or so. We also discuss if I am a good fit for you and answer your questions about my practice.
- If we decide I am not a good fit for you I may be able to offer you referrals for local therapists who may fit your needs
- If we are a good fit, we schedule an appointment.
- I will give you the option of having intake paperwork emailed to you or you can arrive for your appointment 20 minutes early to fill it out.
- Ideally you feel a sense of hope at the idea of starting therapy and taking this step forward.
The first session:
- We meet! You will be given the chance to ask questions about the paperwork, payment options, or anything else that has come up since we last spoke.
- We talk in depth about what brought you in and your history.
- I tell you about different ways we can treat your issue and together we develop an initial treatment plan.
- By the end of session it is my goal to understand what you need from therapy and for you to be comfortable with me.
After that:
It depends on your treatment plan. If we have decided to use pure EMDR (blog article on what to expect at EMDR sessions here) or TF-CBT for your treatment the following weeks are very straightforward. For those using a combination of treatment approaches the next sessions will flow per our plan. I will add the the plan is not set in stone and sometimes we will make adjustments as needed.
Does that help you know what to expect? I sure hope so! Therapy can be an amazing gift to give yourself. If I can answer any other questions for you to help you “make that call” feel free to email me. CaliCounseling@gmail.com
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