What to Expect
Is this your first time exploring therapy? Not quite sure what to expect? Maybe feeling a bit nervous or anxious about the whole process? First, that’s a very natural response. Seeking therapy and/or finding a therapist can be very overwhelming, whether it’s your first time or even if you’ve attended therapy before. Let me break the process down for you so that you have a better idea of what to expect along the way!
Take some time to go through my website, as well as the websites of other therapists. Some key points to look out for include:
Credentials - Does the therapist have their credentials clearly listed? Are they a registered practitioner (such as Register Social Worker, Regitered Psychotherapist, or Registered Psychologist)? How many years of experience do they have?
Benefits Coverage - If you have extended benefits that cover therapy, do they cover the therapist’s designation (such as Social Worker, Psychotherapist, or Psychologist)?
Areas of focus - does the therapist focus/specialize in the concerns you are experiencing?
Do they offer a complimentary consultation? (In my opinion, this is key. See Step 2 for why)
Step 1 - Browsing
Book and attend a complimentary, no obligation, telephone or video consultation. This may not seem like a necessary step, however it is quite important! The consultation not only gives you an opportunity to see if you feel comfortable speaking to the therapist, but also if they match the vibe you’re looking for and if there is potential for building a therapeutic relationship. It is a chance to ask the therapist any questions you may have about their credentials, experience and the therapy process. It is also an opportunity for the therapist to gain an understanding of what you're experiencing and to ensure that they have the appropriate skills and experience to support you. 15 minutes might not seem like a lot of time, however, you’ll usually know if it’s a “hell no” pretty quickly. The therapeutic relationship plays an important role, so you’re going to want to go with someone you feel comfortable building trust with!
Step 2 - The Consultation
Once you’ve found a therapist you’d like to move forward with, you’ll get the first session booked and the journey begins! Every therapist will have their own process on how they walk with you on that journey, however, if you choose to work with me you can expect the following:
When you book your first session, you will be sent an intake package to complete. The intake package will include questions about what has brought you to therapy, what you’re hoping to get from therapy, as well as some basic background questions and a consent and confidentiality agreement. I ask that this be completed and sent back prior to the first session.
In your first session we will review your completed intake package, and the consent and confidentiality forms. I may have some clarifying questions and we will begin to explore how we can work together to achieve your goals.
In terms of how many sessions and the frequency of sessions, this is also something that will be discussed in the first session and we will work together to create a plan that works for your needs, schedule and budget.
If you’re looking for a more solution focused approach and we agree that it fits your needs, sessions can be limited from just 1 to 3. If you’re looking for longer term support, we can work to find a frequency that works best for you.
Overall, I take a very tailored approach to each individual client and their needs and hold space for the flexibility to shift if/when your needs may change.
