Consultations

Consultations are offered free of charge and typically last about 15-20 minutes over the phone, providing an opportunity to discuss your needs and determine the best path forward.

For couples consultations, it is necessary that both partners participate in the call, as this allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship dynamics; as a result, these consultations may take a bit longer.

When working with children and adolescents, the consultation process is carefully structured to include an initial discussion with the parent(s), followed by a separate conversation with the child or adolescent to ensure their comfort and address their specific concerns. Then, a third and final conversation happens with the parent(s) to determine the next steps.

Some Helpful Questions for Your Consultation

  • What can I expect from my first session?

  • What type of psychotherapy do you provide?

  • What are your expectations of me as a client?

  • What are the session fees?

  • I am from _____ background. Do you have any experience with this?

  • What are your hours of availability?

FAQs

  • Therapy is a supportive and confidential process where you work with a trained therapist to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It's a safe space where you can talk openly about whatever is on your mind, whether it’s dealing with stress, coping with life changes, or working through deeper issues like trauma or relationship challenges.

    The goal of therapy is to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, develop healthier coping strategies, and ultimately, lead a more balanced and fulfilling life. It’s a collaborative journey, where you and your therapist work together to identify your goals and create a plan that’s tailored to your needs. Whether you're facing a specific issue or just looking to improve your overall well-being, therapy can be a valuable tool in your personal growth and healing.

  • Deciding whether you need therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s important to remember that therapy is a resource for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. You might consider therapy if you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress that are affecting your daily life. If you’re finding it difficult to manage relationships, navigate life changes, or if you’re feeling stuck in patterns that are holding you back, therapy can provide support and guidance.

    Therapy isn’t just for those in crisis—many people seek therapy to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, improve their relationships, or develop healthier coping strategies. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, or isolated, or if you’re struggling to make sense of your emotions, therapy can offer a safe space to explore these feelings and find a way forward.

    Ultimately, if you’re asking yourself whether you need therapy, it might be worth having an initial conversation with a therapist.

  • Speaking to a friend can be incredibly comforting, and it’s great to have people in your life who are there to listen. However, therapy offers something a bit different. A therapist is a trained professional who can provide unbiased, confidential support and is equipped with the skills to help you navigate complex emotions and challenges in a structured way.

    Friends are wonderful for emotional support, but they might not have the expertise to help you explore deeper issues, identify patterns, or develop strategies for change. Your therapist’s sole focus is on helping you achieve your goals and well-being.

    It’s not about choosing one over the other—both can play important roles in your life. Therapy offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and healing, guided by someone who is there specifically to support your mental health.

  • The length of therapy can vary depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people find that a few sessions are enough to address a specific issue, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over several months or even years.

    There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—therapy is a personalized process, and you and your therapist will work together to determine what feels right for you. Some people start therapy with a specific goal in mind, like managing anxiety or working through a tough life transition, and they finish therapy once they feel they’ve made progress. Others might see therapy as a longer-term commitment to personal growth and self-awareness.

    It’s important to remember that therapy is flexible. You can take breaks, adjust the frequency of sessions, or revisit therapy whenever you feel it’s necessary. The most important thing is that you feel supported and are moving toward the changes you want to see in your life.

  • Both in-person and online therapy have their benefits, and the best choice really depends on what works best for you and your lifestyle.

    In-person therapy offers a more traditional setting, where you and your therapist meet face-to-face in a comfortable, private environment. Some people find that being in the same room helps them feel more connected and focused during sessions.

    On the other hand, online therapy is incredibly convenient, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your own home or wherever you feel most at ease. It can be a great option if you have a busy schedule, live in a remote area, or prefer the flexibility of virtual sessions. Many people find online therapy just as effective as in-person therapy, with the added benefit of being more accessible.

    Ultimately, the "better" option is the one that feels right for you. Some people even choose to mix both, starting with in-person sessions and then transitioning to online, or vice versa. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and supported, whether you're meeting your therapist in person or online.

  • Making the most out of therapy as a client starts with being open and honest, both with yourself and your therapist. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your sessions:

    1. Be Open: Share your thoughts and feelings, even if they’re difficult to talk about. Therapy is a safe space, and being transparent can lead to deeper insights and more meaningful progress.

    2. Set Clear Goals: Think about what you want to achieve in therapy. Whether it’s managing stress, improving relationships, or gaining self-awareness, having clear goals can guide your sessions and help you stay focused.

    3. Stay Engaged: Therapy is a collaborative process. Actively participate in sessions, ask questions, and be willing to explore new perspectives. The more engaged you are, the more you’ll get out of the experience.

    4. Practice Outside of Sessions: Apply what you’ve learned in therapy to your daily life. Whether it’s practicing new coping strategies, reflecting on insights, or doing homework your therapist suggests, this can reinforce your progress.

    5. Be Patient: Change takes time, so be patient with yourself. Celebrate small victories along the way and understand that therapy is a journey, not a quick fix.

    By being committed and proactive, you can maximize the benefits of therapy and make meaningful strides toward your goals.

  • A psychotherapist is a trained professional who uses talk therapy to help you work through emotional, psychological, or behavioral issues. They may come from various mental health backgrounds.

    A psychologist holds a doctoral degree in psychology and can diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They also use talk therapy and may conduct psychological assessments to understand your needs better.

    A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health. They can diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and provide therapy, often focusing on more complex cases that may require medical treatment.

    In essence, psychotherapists and psychologists focus on talk therapy, with psychologists also offering assessments, while psychiatrists can prescribe medication and manage more severe mental health conditions. Your choice depends on the type of support you need.