What can I expect during the first visit?

Once you have scheduled an initial session, you will be asked to complete an intake form. This form will ask for basic demographic and contact information and will also include our social media policy and informed consent for treatment forms. These forms will be reviewed with you during your first session, and this provides you with a chance to ask questions about the information discussed in the forms.

The first session is about me getting to know you. We will likely discuss what is most on your mind, how it has been impacting you, and set goals together. There is no need to feel any pressure to ‘fill the silence’. The 75-minute initial session usually goes by very quickly, and I will guide the session as much or as little as you need.
The most important factor of psychotherapy is the relationship between you and your therapist. You will likely know if it is a good fit between us within 2-3 sessions. It is important to feel understood and seen by your therapist.
It can be helpful to have a list of any medications, including supplements, you are taking, and/or any other providers you are seeing (for example, physiotherapy, pain clinic, yoga, etc.). It can also be helpful to know that most people are nervous about their first psychotherapy session, or when starting with a new therapist. Your therapist knows this and will be there with you to make the first session a smooth and comfortable process. We will take things one session at a time, and at your pace.