On your first visit with me, I will typically want to get to know you and find out why you are interested in counseling. I may ask about your life, what you do, where you live, with whom you live and what you think the problem is. I may ask about your family and friends because this information helps to assess your situation and develop a plan for treatment. Psychotherapy is an active collaboration between therapist and client. It isn't always easy. But people willing to work in close partnership with their therapist often find relief from their emotional distress and begin to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.
If you don't feel comfortable with me as your therapist, share that information during our session. Often times those feelings can be very therapeutic to work through; however, don't be afraid to change to another therapist. Feeling comfortable with the therapist you choose and the style of therapy is important to the success of your treatment.
The law protects the privacy of all communication between a client and a therapist. In most situations, I can only release information about your treatment to others if you sign a written authorization form; however, there are some situations where I am permitted or required to disclose information either with or without your consent or authorization:
"Good people are good because they’ve come to wisdom through failure. We get very little wisdom from success, you know."
- William Saroyan