What Getting Started Looks Like
You Don’t Have to Have the Perfect Words
Many people feel unsure about how to begin therapy or worry about saying the “right” thing. That’s normal. Starting therapy can feel daunting, but you don’t need a clear diagnosis, a polished explanation, or a detailed plan. The first step in the consultation process is simply a conversation about what’s been happening, what feels stuck, and what you’re hoping might change.
Individual therapy here is about learning more about yourself. That often includes moments of discomfort, and that’s okay. Discomfort isn’t a sign that something is wrong; it’s often part of understanding ourselves more clearly.
What the Consultation is (and isn’t)
The consultation process is a brief, structured conversation. We’ll discuss what led you to reach out, what you’re hoping for from individual therapy, and how you typically respond when things feel difficult or slow. I’ll also share how I work and what this process usually asks of people. This is not a therapy session, and it’s not an intake. There’s no obligation to continue. The purpose is to decide whether starting therapy with this approach and this working relationship feels like a good fit.
Practical Considerations & Scheduling
I provide individual therapy to adults located in PSYPACT participating states, as well as in Florida and California. If you plan to use insurance, the consultation process for services is available only through Alma for eligible plans in Florida and California. Insurance scheduling and coverage are managed directly through Alma. If you prefer private pay, you can schedule directly through Calendly. Many clients choose private pay for various reasons, including privacy, flexibility, or professional considerations, especially when starting therapy. When insurance is utilized, certain parts of the clinical record—such as diagnosis and documentation—are shared with third parties as part of coverage requirements. While this is not a concern for some individuals, for others, it is an important consideration.
Deciding Whether to Move Forward
If you’re unsure about reaching out, that’s normal. The work I do in individual therapy is not crisis-focused, and it’s not about helping you feel better in the immediate sense. It’s for people who want to look more closely at the behaviors and patterns they continue to repeat, even when they know those patterns are causing them pain. Before starting therapy, it can be helpful to reflect on a simple question: What would you want to be different after our work together is finished? There isn’t a right answer to that. The point isn’t to have clarity or a plan. It’s to notice what kind of change you’re hoping for, and whether that change involves understanding yourself differently, not just changing circumstances. This page is here to help you decide whether that way of working—and this consultation process—feels like a fit for you right now.