THE INTAKE PROCESS

The intake session is not really therapy. It is an opportunity to determine if the goals of the client and the expertise of the therapist are a match. I believe that the process of selecting a therapist is very important and should be made with care. I attempt to create an atmosphere wherein the client(s) can feel free to ask the questions needed to make that decision. I, too, need to be able to ask questions to determine if my expertise falls within the area of a client's concerns. Normally, the first few sessions are devoted to this exploratory process. 

Even though therapy begins after the first session, both you and I may decide that your needs may be better served by someone else. In this case, I will attempt to assist with a referral. There are also situations in which I may recommend adjunct services; couple's psychotherapy, medical or psychological evaluation, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to name a few. You are always free to pursue these additions and alternatives or not. 

Psychotherapy is a voluntary process which you have the right to discontinue at any time. It can be an important part of the therapeutic process to discuss when you believe that your needs have been met and you are ready to discontinue the process. Many times, clients discover they want to come back occasionally for a "tune up" or to address new circumstances in their lives. Once a client has successfully worked with me, they are always welcomed back to work on subsequent issues.