Providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and couples

What the First Session Is Like

Starting counseling can feel uncertain. Most people have some sense that something is not quite right but are not always sure what to expect from therapy, or what they are supposed to say once they arrive. The first session is simply a place to begin.

It’s just A Conversation

You do not need to prepare anything ahead of time. There is no expectation that you explain things clearly or have the “right” words. Most people begin by talking about what led them to therapy. Sometimes it is a specific situation, or just a general sense that something feels off. From there, we take it one step at a time.

Getting a Sense of What’s Going On

Part of the first session is simply understanding your situation.

We may talk about:

• what has been happening recently

• what feels difficult

• patterns you have noticed over time

• what you are hoping might change

The goal is to begin forming a clearer picture.

A Chance to See If It Feels Like a Good Fit

The first session is also a chance for you to get a sense of what it is like to work together.

You may find yourself asking:

• Does this feel comfortable enough to continue?

• Do I feel understood?

• Can I talk openly here?

Those are important questions. Counseling tends to be the most helpful when it feels like it fits.

What Happens Next

Some people come in with a specific issue they want to work through. Others are looking for a place to think more broadly about their life. After the first session, we can talk about what might be helpful moving forward and what pace makes sense.

A Simple Place to Begin

For many people, the hardest part of counseling is starting. The first session is not about having everything figured out. It is just a conversation. A place to slow down, to talk about what is going on, and begin making sense of it.

Getting Started

If you are considering counseling or have questions, you are welcome to reach out by phone or email. We can schedule a time to meet and begin from there.

Areas of Focus

Men’s Counseling

Support for stress, anger, and questions about direction
Learn more under therapy services.

Feeling Stuck

When life feels unclear or difficult to move forward
Learn more under therapy services.

Couples Counseling

Working through conflict and rebuilding connection
Learn more under therapy services.

Child & Adolescent Therapy

Support for emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges
Learn more under therapy services.

Parenting Consultation

Guidance for navigating challenges and strengthening connection with your child
Learn more under therapy services.

Songwriting for Self Knowledge

Using creative writing and songwriting to deepen in the relationship with your mind and express yourself creativitly.

Learn more under therapy services.