What to Expect

At first, lots and lots of questions

The first few sessions are about me getting to know you and your history. That means I ask you a lot of questions. My goal is to find out about your current life and your experiences as you were growing up.

You know yourself and history, but I don’t. Once someone asked me if this was a secret test, and the answer is no. There are no wrong answers. From the very beginning, my task is to figure out how I can best help you.

Therapy is something that we do together.

It usually takes a little time for you to feel comfortable. I’m a stranger. Your job is to be as open as you can. That makes the therapy relationship different. And it takes time to get used to it.

Your session time can be any way you want. You can talk about anything you want. It is your special time. And you get me – full attention as I listen intently, and, of course, speak, too. We are both talking a lot. I am not your stereotypical quiet therapist.

Should I tell her that…

One of the most important parts of your working in therapy is being transparent with your thoughts, feelings, and what’s happening in your life. An excellent rule of thumb… if your inner critic says, “Don’t tell her that.” – Do tell her that.

In the long run, keeping those secrets from your therapist only holds you back.

Therapy is work.

What in the world does that mean? It means that I’m showing up for the session and talking. I work best with the people who will put themselves into an uncomfortable place to get to the other side…, feeling comfortable.

You will need to open up and take the risk of showing me your true self, even the parts you don’t like. Isn’t that why you’re here?

Laughing and Crying

The therapy process touches on the serious issues that brought you to therapy.

Sometimes, there’s crying, and sometimes, there’s laughing. After all, we are talking about your life!

More importantly, there is healing and growth.

I’ll be your partner in change.

I am ready to help you have the future that you want.