What to expect

What to Expect

Starting counseling can feel overwhelming and intimidating. You might have anxiety about the "unknowns," or fear and trepidation about getting into tough topics and emotions. Here is some information to help you feel a little more comfortable with the process.

  1. Your first appointment is an "intake" appointment, where we spend most of the time gathering information about your life history, childhood experiences, relationship history, medical and health past, and family history. We will start with reviewing confidentiality and privacy policies, and work through any questions you may have. We will also define some goals or hopes you have for counseling, and define what you would like to feel or experience on the other side of the process.
  2. It's normal to feel a variety of emotions before, during, and after therapy sessions, ranging from excitement and hope to anxiety and dread. It's expected that you might feel everywhere on the spectrum. I encourage you to bring all those feelings into the session and be honest about them. It is really helpful for us to pay attention to those feelings and build a sense of security and safety for you.
  3. It's normal to "have things get worse before they get better" as you begin exploring material in your life. It's important to know that experiencing an increase in emotional or physical symptoms is actually an important and natural part of the healing process. Good news is that phase won't last forever. We will work through those ups and downs at your pace.
  4. I encourage you to share what is working or not working for you in therapy. I will ask this question pretty regularly, and address any issues that might not feel right for you. I value your thoughts, feelings and opinions and believe addressing issues is vital for best outcomes in therapy.

In Person

I am located at 3758 SE Milwaukie Ave, Portland, OR. There is street parking at the location as well as gender neutral bathrooms.

When you arrive, you may take a seat in the waiting area where several chairs are available and I will greet you when it is your appointment time.

Office interior
Office interior
Office interior
I provide a calm, relaxing environment for us to do our work.

Telehealth

Here are a few ways to prepare for a video session:

  • You will receive a link to your video session via email. This is a secure, HIPAA compliant platform especially designed for therapy sessions.
  • It's best to use a computer or larger screen for sessions, but if you have to use a phone, you will be prompted to download the Simple Practice Video app. Please have a secure place for your phone to rest. This last point is really for me, as I get a bit nauseous if I'm "carried" around!
  • Plan to have a private space where you can close a door while in session. I don't recommend having a video session in your car, as it lacks the privacy you may desire for the sort of material we might cover. Alas, if it is a last resort, it is better than nothing!
  • Be sure to have high speed internet and your charger available.
  • If the call drops, I will try you again, or if I am unable to reach you, will call you by phone.
  • Plan for your environment to be as comfortable and calming as possible. I recommend having tissues at hand, and blankets or other comforts you might like.
  • Last but not least, plan for a few minutes before and after sessions for some "transition" time back into your environment. A few minutes to reflect, journal, breathe or splash some water on your face before heading back into normal life is really helpful since you don't have drive time as a "transition" before or after sessions.