During your first visit, we'll discuss what issues concern you, ie., what you want to work on, as well as the history of that concern.  We'll also discuss your history in general--what was your childhood like? what were pivotal events in your life that you think may be having an impact on the current concerns?  Any medical history that may be important for me to know, previous therapy experiences, etc.  We'll also get to know each other so that we can determine if this is a good fit.  The fit between the therapist and patient is critical to the success of therapy, as change happens in the relationship.  So patients are encouraged to openly express any questions, concerns or hesitations they have about therapy or whether this is a good fit. 

 

This openness is encouraged and in fact critical throughout the process of therapy, not just in the first session.  All of your thoughts and feelings are welcome in therapy, no topic is taboo.  Patients are encouraged to bring into therapy whatever comes to mind.  Whether this be free associations, current conflicts, relationship worries, dreams, fantasies, memories, aspirations and disappointments.  All of it is fodder for the mill.

 

Once we have determined if this is a good therapeutic fit, we will set up a schedule for therapy.  The frequency of sessions (once a week, two to three times a week, etc.) and the duration of the therapy depends largely on the patient's needs and goals.  While I do work with individuals on a short term basis, most of my patients come in seeking more substantive personal growth and change, and that can be a more lengthy process.  Therapy is often like peeling the layers of an onion.  So how deep you want to go and are willing to go, depends on you. Contrary to popular belief, therapy is not for sick people.  It is often the healthiest person in a family who seeks help.  And therapy can be hard work, it's not always fun and happy.  So it is truly a strong person who chooses to do the work and to stick with it.

 

Of course, cost is a concern to many patients, so I do offer a flexible sliding scale in cases of personal need, and also in instances where a patient would like to do more extensive psychoanalytic work multiple times a week.  Sessions are 50 minutes long, and I do require 24 hours notice of cancellations or there will be a charge for the session.