About

That First Big Step

You’ve been considering reaching out for someone to talk to about your situation for a while.

Now, you’ve taken that first big step and scheduled your first visit.

This may or may not be your first experience with a counselor, but just the idea of reaching out fills you with anxiety.

Have you made the right decision? Are you going to feel awkward? What if it doesn’t work out?

How is this going to go?

When you first enter the office, its warmth immediately envelops you.

The waiting area feels cozy, but – what lies beyond the counselor’s office door?

You hear your name. This is it.

What will happen next?

I welcome you and invite you into my office.

You have a seat on a comfortable couch and look around – still wondering what to expect.

We get the initial formalities of consents and office information out of the way, and then it’s time to begin.

“Please let this work,” you think to yourself.

An Unexpected Surprise

I don’t just ask you a bunch of pre-written questions and check off little boxes. I’m focused entirely on you – genuinely attentive. I’m actually listening to what you say.

I want to learn why you’re here – what’s really on your mind.

As you slowly open up about what’s happening in your life, it hits you.

Suddenly, you feel as though someone truly hears you – as though you’re more than just another client – more than just another slot in a busy schedule.

This is better than you expected.

You’re beginning to relax – apprehension gives way to warmth and acceptance – because, for once, you don’t feel you’re being judged.

You describe what you’re experiencing and realize: you can be yourself here.

You don’t have to apologize for how you feel. The burden on your soul feels lighter – as if a tremendous weight has lifted from you.

Your mind calms, and finally, you experience some peace.

This feels good.

This is a good “fit” for you – you want more of this – the freedom, the tranquility.

You’ve completed your first session, and you’re already feeling better about the road ahead.

You want to schedule additional sessions. And that’s really easy. You can schedule directly with me, or if it’s more convenient, self-schedule your appointment online.

Even though there are known and unknown obstacles and uncertainties about navigating as you move forward, you know you no longer have to do this by yourself.