The first appointment is called the intake and this is used to gather information about your life history, current symptoms, and functioning. We will review informed consent documents and your rights as a client. We will identify any diagnosis present, goals for therapy, and a treatment plan is created to target the identified areas. 

It is normal to have high anxiety prior to the intake appointment. It’s a vulnerable step and can be difficult to meet someone new and share your life all at once. Just remember, it’s only new for a short time and will become more comfortable as we work together.

This varies for everyone. Some people start to feel some relief shortly after starting therapy. However, the therapy process is not linear and it’s important to expect ups and downs throughout. There are times things may feel more difficult before they get better, although this seems contradicting, it is normal. Therapy often reveals a lot internal dynamics that have been boxed up for some time and initially it can feel overwhelming to unpack the boxes. However, it is an important part of healing and you will continue to progress over time.

All information shared with me is kept completely confidential. I will not release records or information, without a signed release providing me permission to do so.

*However, there are certain situations that I am legally and ethically required to break confidentiality, such as any reports of abuse to protected individuals or if there is a threat of danger to yourself or someone else. This will be discussed in more detail in the first apointment.

We will determine if working together will be the right therapeutic fit for your needs. Finding the right fit is important so that you feel comfortable to talk about your life and to ensure that I have the competencies needed for your concerns. If it is determined that my services aren’t the appropriate resource, I will provide additional referrals based on your needs.

I use SimplePractice, which is a HIPAA compliant electronic health record. This contains all of your mental health records, is used for scheduling, and communicating with me.

When I moved across the country from Oregon back to Michigan in the midst of a global pandemic, Good Harbor Bay Beach, just 20 miles north of Traverse City, was one of the first places I went. I instantly felt at peace and grounded in the moment. It gave me an opportunity to disconnect and just be present. I have continued to go back to Good Harbor Bay Beach often, when I need to bring some of that balance and calm into my life. When deciding to start a private practice, I wanted to channel this feeling and sense of peace into my work.