What can I expect from my first session?
The first session is called an Intake appointment. You will be asked to complete important paperwork online, prior to your first appointment. During the session I will gather some additional information regarding the main concern for coming in. We will then discuss next steps, including a customizable care plan.

What if I want to switch therapists?
There are times, when it may just not feel like a good fit. Although it might feel hard, I believe it is best to speak directly with me and share your reasons you would like to change therapists. I do not get angry or offended when people want to change therapists, though we do find it is helpful to talk about the reasons you want to change to figure out how to best suit your needs. If that feels too hard, you can always send me a secure message through my secure portal.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
When you talk to a friend, they give you advice based on their past experiences. When you talk to a professional, they listen and help you make your own decisions about your life. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

How does confidentiality work?
Basically, whatever you say in therapy, stays in therapy. However, there are times when a therapist is legally obligated to break confidentiality:

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a.  When a client experiences a health emergency during a session medical staff would be provided only with necessary information. No information about why a client is in therapy will be shared. I verify your location at the beginning of each session.

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b.  Harm to self or others. If a therapist believes that you are in imminent danger of hurting yourself or someone else, a family member, police or ambulance will be called to ensure safety.

c.  When child under the age of 16 or older adult in care is in danger Family and Children’s Services or the police will be called and a report filed.

d.  Your files are subpoenaed by the court or by the Committee of Professional Counselors (Missouri) or Kentucky Board of Professsional Counselors.

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e.  Some therapists carry confidentiality into the community. I inform clients that if I see them in the community. I will not say speak or say hello. I don’t want to put anyone is a situation where they have to explain how they know me. If you approach me, I will respond but will not provide information about our therapy relationship. I am always open to speaking to clients outside of the office, but they get to make first contact.
 

How do I have privacy during video sessions?

a. Using headphones with a microphone attached also allows the microphone to be closer to your mouth, reducing the need to raise your voice to be heard by the person on the other end.

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b. Find a room in your house that feels comfortable for you, put a sign on the door that says you’re on a call. I've had clients take calls in their car because it was the only privacy available. Just note that you can't drive, which you will read about in the forms sent prior to the intake session.

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c. Use a room with carpet, a room without ceramic or tiles so that the sound will not bounce off and echo.

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d. Inform others that you have an appointment and need privacy.  You don't have to tell them what type of appointment.

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e. If teletherapy at home truly won’t work for you, you can at least start working out a plan and finding a therapist now so you can attend in-person appointments when the time is right.