We haven’t met yet, but I want to say that I’m so proud of you for taking the steps of seeking a therapist, even if it doesn’t end up being me. Although there has been a great deal of progress in society’s view of therapy, there remains to be stigmas attached to seeking help from a mental health professional. I’ll ask you what I’ve asked many people who are on the fence about going to therapy: when someone has a physical ailment, do we judge them for getting it treated? No! It only makes sense that if you have an illness or health issue, you should go to a doctor or a specialist to have it treated. That doesn’t and shouldn’t stop at your physical health. Your mental and physical health work hand-in-hand!

All clinicians have their own style of therapy and include different techniques and approaches, so even if you have been to therapy before, it may differ from the therapy you will be engaging in with me in some ways. When working with my clients I use a relational, person-centered approach. I use culturally relevant examples and connections. I will sometimes draw from our own experiences and those of folks in our communities when clinically appropriate. I take a direct approach that is authentic to who I am both personally and clinically.

Our first few meetings will differ from later sessions in that we will be focusing on getting to know one another so that we can begin to decide on what the best to way to proceed with treatment will be. I will ask you:

• What is bringing you into treatment at this time?
• Have you been to therapy before? What was that like?
• What are the symptoms you’ve been experiencing?
• Questions about your history, including interpersonal relationships (family, friends, romantic, etc.), and childhood.

Within the first few visits, we will collectively establish goals for treatment and discuss the best plan to begin to accomplish those goals. As the treatment continues, we will assess your progress on those goals and establish new ones.

I know that it can be very intense to reach deep and express your feelings, especially with someone who will, at first, be a stranger to you. Be assured that I will ease you into the work. It is important to me that you feel comfortable and safe throughout this process. I believe that your giving me access to your thoughts, fears, goals and aspirations is a privilege and I do not take it lightly.