How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session?

Your first therapy session is an important step toward self-care and growth, and there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to prepare—just showing up for yourself is enough. However, here are a few things that may help you feel more comfortable and ready: Reflect on What Brings You to Therapy, Consider Any Goals or Hopes for Therapy, Give Yourself Permission to Be Open, Logistical Preparation, Know That There’s No Judgment—Only Support.

How long does therapy usually last?

Therapy is a personal and unique journey, and the length of time varies for each individual. Some people find that short-term therapy (a few weeks to a few months) helps them work through a specific challenge, while others benefit from longer-term therapy to explore deeper patterns, unresolved issues, or ongoing personal growth.

Is everything we discuss in therapy confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental part of therapy—what you share in our sessions is protected and respected. This is a safe space where you can speak openly without fear of judgment or disclosure. Your privacy is essential to building trust and fostering healing.

However, there are a few legal and ethical exceptions where I may be required to break confidentiality to ensure safety. These include:
-If you express intent to harm yourself or someone else.
-If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable adult.
-If I am required to comply with a court order.

If any of these situations arise, we will discuss the next steps together with care and transparency. My priority is always your well-being, safety, and trust.

If you ever have questions about confidentiality, I encourage you to ask—we can always talk through any concerns to help you feel secure and supported in our work together.

What therapy approaches do you use?

I believe that therapy should be personalized and adaptable, so I take a holistic, integrative approach—blending different evidence-based modalities to best support your unique needs. Some of the therapeutic approaches I use include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helping you recognize and shift unhelpful thought patterns.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) – Building emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness skills.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy – Focusing on strengths and practical steps toward change.
Psychodynamic Therapy – Exploring past experiences and patterns that shape your present.

Motivational Interviewing – Encouraging self-discovery and readiness for change.
Person-Centered Therapy – Providing a supportive, nonjudgmental space for healing.
Mindfulness & Meditation – Cultivating presence, balance, and self-awareness.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, therapy is a collaborative process, and together, we’ll find what resonates most with you. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel empowered to explore, heal, and grow at your own pace.