I offer 45-55 minute appointments. Initial visits are often 75-90 minutes long. I also offer 90 minute sessions for those not using insurance benefits who request 90 minute appointments. I find it the most beneficial if clients can come in weekly for the first 4-6 weeks. After that, frequency will depend on the level of need. Currently, due to the Coronavirus pandemic I see most of my clients via telehealth, but do prioritize seeing individuals in person if needed.
During your first session, I hope to get to know you and your goals for counseling. We will work to establish a working relationship where you can begin to feel comfortable and safe to work through your current challenges. Typically, we will discuss your family history, medical challenges, and current issues and problems you are facing. We will also establish the goals you would like to work on in counseling. We will also discuss expectations of the relationship.
The length of the counseling relationship is dependent on the client's level of need and goals of treatment. We will explore what your goals and expectations at the start of counseling and reevaluate as the treatment progresses. Some clients experience improvement after just a few sessions, but some have much more complex backgrounds and challenges and may continue to value the support ongoing for a few years.
Family sessions are only offered if it is in the best interest of the individual client. Family sessions can be beneficial for the family to understand an individual's mental health challenges and to be able to build compassion, understanding, work through conflict and build better communication. Family Sessions often are about 55 minutes long if billing insurance. 90 minute sessions can be arranged if paying out of pocket.
Walking as part of the counseling experience can provide an added benefit to the experience of counseling. It can help regulate the nervous system and provide a more relaxed environment for those who may be intimidated or uncomfortable with an office setting. I provide individual out of pocket sessions where we walk as part of the counseling session in local parks or community walking trails. We will choose a quiet location where your confidentiality can be best preserved.
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