What to Expect in Your First Counseling Session
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Behavioral Health in Colchester, CT
You have searched for therapists in Colchester, CT on Google and then looked at my website. You called me and we had a consultation phone call. We both agreed to scheduling the first intake appointment. So now what?
First and foremost, it is completely normal to feel anxious. You are meeting me for the first time and preparing to share personal information about yourself. Feeling nervous is understandable. Breathe. Remember, you are taking a step towards feeling better and that is amazing!!
Behavioral Health in Colchester, CT
Your first appointment is an intake appointment. I will review documents you electronically signed before the appointment which include the Notice of Privacy, Informed Consent for Treatment, and Financial Agreement. I will answer any questions you may have about these documents. Next, I will be asking you questions about why you are seeking out counseling. What is going on that is making you seek out therapy? Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed. I will then ask you questions about your personal history and current situation. I will ask questions about your mood symptoms and how it is impacting areas of your life such as work or relationships. The reasons for these questions are to better understand you, your situation, and how I may be able to help you.
How can you participate in the intake process? Be honest with how you are feeling and with what has been going on for you. Some people find it helpful to bring in a list of what has been going on and symptoms so that is easier to share. Ask questions about the therapy process. Think about what it is that you want to achieve in therapy. Think about how you would know therapy has helped. What would that look like?
Therapy in Colchester, CT
Therapy in Colchester, CT
At the end of our intake appointment, I will review treatment recommendations with you. Sometimes the recommendation is to participate in weekly therapy at Azalea Counseling & Wellness, LLC to reduce your anxiety symptoms. Sometimes we discover I may not be the best fit and I can provide referrals to providers who may be a better fit for you. Ultimately, you get to decide how you wish to proceed with your treatment recommendations. If you are thinking about wanting to try counseling to reduce anxiousness, please call at 860-888-2516 or email at jennifer@jbradytherapy.hush.com for a free 15 minute phone consultation to see if this is a good fit for you.