Our first phone call will be about 15 minutes long—I’ll ask you to tell me what’s brought you to counseling, in a nutshell. I’ll talk about how I can help, and then if you’d like, we’ll set up an initial session. I’ll ask some very basic demographic questions (address, date of birth, etc.), and for your insurance information.
Our first meeting will be purely just an info gathering session, mostly to determine if you’re feeling comfortable. We’ll dive a little deeper with what led you to seek counseling, and I’ll ask some questions about your family and medical history. You’ll have ample opportunity to ask any questions that you have, and at the end of the session we’ll determine if you’re feeling like you’d like to continue. If it’s a go, we’ll sign some paperwork. If for any reason you feel that we are not a good fit, I won’t leave you high and dry! I’ll offer a referral to another therapist who aligns more closely with your wants and needs.
My style is pretty relaxed and informal. “Mi casa, su casa” is my motto. It’s important to me that you feel safe and comfortable in my office. Kick off your shoes. Bring slippers if you want.
Some other things you can expect in sessions with me:
I will offer you a beverage, not merely as a polite aside, but because you’ve had a day and most definitely deserve one.
I unapologetically wear jeans to the office.
I sometimes swear.
I’m definitely not a ‘blank slate’ therapist. It’s not my style to sit in my chair, expressionless, and say, “Tell me how you feel about that”. I mean, I totally want to know how you feel, but I’ll be much more interactive and relational.
Humor makes a frequent appearance in session. My co-worker said to me the other day, “I love how much laughter comes out of your office.” The work in therapy can be challenging—sometimes painful. But I also believe it’s okay to laugh with each other. Laughter is healing, too.
I may quote the Yogi Tea bag paper tabs from my teacup. I may even give you one to take home and stick on your fridge.
I'll use expressive art and therapeutic writing in my sessions (or between sessions), if you’re open to it. No experience necessary, judgement free zone.
Contact me at: (207)-573-2205 or soulwisdomcounseling@gmail.com