Your First Session
Your first session is a chance to slow down, share your story, and begin building a trusting relationship. We'll talk about what brought you in, what you've tried, and what you hope might feel different moving forward. There is no perfect way to begin. Showing up is the first step.
For children, the first session typically begins with caregivers so we can understand the bigger picture. From there, your kid takes the lead. For little ones that looks like play (with skills hiding inside); for teens it looks like conversation that doesn't feel like a lecture. Both are how real coping tools get built.
The Therapy Process
Therapy is a collaborative process. Together we build trust, figure out what's actually going on, and practice skills that hold up outside the therapy room.
One heads-up from the start: progress isn't a straight line. Some weeks you'll leave feeling ten feet tall; some weeks your kid will melt down in the parking lot. Both are normal, and neither means it isn't working. New skills wobble before they stick.
See the Space
Walking into an unfamiliar office is easier when you've already seen it. Here's where we'll meet:
We Might Be a Good Fit If...
- You're looking for practical tools, not just someone to listen.
- You're ready to better understand yourself, or your child, and create meaningful change.
- You value a collaborative, goal-oriented approach where you have a real say.
- You want therapy tailored to your unique needs, strengths, and values, including your faith, if that matters to you.
- You want a therapist who brings warmth, honesty, and sometimes even humor into the room.
And we might not be the right fit if you need crisis-level or intensive care right now, we'll help you connect with the right level of support quickly. See Resources.
Consent & Confidentiality
What consent and confidentiality mean, and how we protect your privacy
Informed consent means you understand how therapy works, its benefits and limits, fees and policies, and your rights, and you agree to move forward. Therapy is always voluntary, so you can ask questions, pause, or stop at any time. For children and teens, a parent or legal guardian provides consent, and we also seek the child's age-appropriate agreement to take part.
Confidentiality means what you share stays private. We won't discuss your care with anyone without your written permission, apart from a few narrow exceptions required by law to keep people safe (a serious risk of harm, suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult, or a court order).
We review both in full, in plain language, during your intake, so nothing about the process is ever a surprise.