Frequently Asked Therapy Questions

The first session is mostly about getting to know each other and beginning to learn your story. We’ll talk a little bit about everything - what’s bringing you in, your background, and any questions you have about therapy, paperwork, or the process. It’s common for this session to feel a bit scattered (think conversation, not interrogation).

One goal is simply beginning to build trust and making sure the space feels comfortable and like a good fit for you. There’s no pressure to share more than feels comfortable and questions are always welcome. While we may start touching on hopes for therapy, deeper goal-setting usually unfolds more naturally over the next few sessions.

Sessions with me are conversational, collaborative, and flexible based on what feels most pressing or needed in the moment. Some days we’re processing something from your week while other times we’re noticing patterns or emotions that are harder to slow down and explore outside the therapy space. Sometimes therapy continues between sessions through optional “homework” or reflections - think invitations for exploration, not assignments.

You won’t be left guessing what I’m thinking - I’m actively engaged with reflection, curiosity, and gentle challenge, with room for humor and very human moments along the way. We can go deep while still leaving room to breathe - therapy has range. 

Some sessions feel grounding, others bring insight or emotion, and sometimes things may feel heavier before they feel lighter. There isn’t a rigid script or “right way” to do therapy here - we allow the process to unfold in a way that feels supportive and real.

Many clients begin with weekly sessions as this can help build momentum and consistency early on, though it isn’t a requirement. Biweekly sessions can also be appropriate depending on what feels realistic and supportive financially, logistically, and emotionally. We’ll decide together what best fits your goals, availability, and current capacity.

Therapy doesn’t follow a fixed timeline. Some clients engage in shorter-term work around a specific focus while others choose longer-term support for deeper exploration. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever, and it doesn’t have to be rushed either. Over time, session frequency may shift, with some clients moving to biweekly or occasional check-ins as therapy begins showing up more naturally in daily life

Absolutely not! There is never pressure to talk about trauma or begin any specific modality before you feel ready. Early work often focuses on building safety, understanding what’s bringing you in, and getting a feel for what feels most supportive as we begin working together. 

Over time, therapy naturally creates space for deeper or more vulnerable experiences to be explored in ways that feel safe, manageable, and supported. Brainspotting, EMDR, and other approaches are modalities I value and may offer as options, but they are never forced or pushed. You always have choice in how we move forward and these tools are introduced collaboratively if and when they feel supportive. Curiosity over pressure is kind of our thing. 

Because session time is reserved just for you, I ask for at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Sessions cancelled with less than 48 hours notice, missed appointments, or arrivals more than 15 minutes late without prior communication are subject to the full session fee.

I understand that real life doesn’t always respect calendars and will do my best to offer flexibility when possible, such as rescheduling within the week or switching to a virtual session, though availability can’t always be guaranteed.

Yes! Confidentiality is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic relationship. What you share with me is held with care and is not shared with others without your written permission. You’ll also receive intake paperwork that clearly explains how your privacy is protected and what to expect.

There are a few legal and ethical situations where confidentiality may need to be broken in order to support safety, such as concerns about abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable adult, or serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else. If situations like this ever arise, we would talk through them together so you’re informed and supported rather than surprised.