What to Expect
What to Expect
WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS
We understand that taking the step to begin therapy can feel a bit daunting. That’s why we’ve created this guide to let you know what to expect, step-by-step, as you are getting started.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
There are a few options to get started. The simplest is to click on the “Schedule Online” button right here, or anywhere on our website, and fill out the form that pops up. Let us know a tiny bit about why you are seeking therapy and what your availability is for a quick 10-15 minute complimentary consultation.
Schedule NowYou are also welcome to call or email our Clinical Director, Rachel Benson, directly, at (714) 468-3685 or info@tustincounseling.com and she will get you set up with a therapist who can help you.
WHAT'S INVOLVED IN THE CONSULTATION?
A short consultation is a great way to get any of your questions answered, as well as to get a sense of the style, demeanor, and personality of the therapist you’ll be working with. These are usually done via Zoom so that we can see each other, but they can also be by phone if you prefer.
During the consultation, your therapist will ask you some questions about why you are seeking therapy at this time. Your therapist may also talk with you about any previous therapy experiences you have had and what you are looking for with this therapy experience. At the end of the consultation, your therapist will help you set up your first appointment.
CAN I JUST SET UP AN APPOINTMENT RIGHT
AWAY, INSTEAD OF HAVING A
CONSULTATION FIRST?
Yes! You can skip the consultation and just set up an initial session with one of our therapists.
Request AppointmentWHAT HAPPENS BETWEEN SETTING UP A FIRST APPOINTMENT AND ACTUALLY ATTENDING THE FIRST APPOINTMENT?
Once you book a first session with one of our therapists, you will be sent a secure link to our Client Portal. Through your personal link, you will be able to electronically sign all of the consent forms we require, as well as complete your intake questionnaire.
You can also input your payment information into the portal as well, so that you don’t have to worry about bringing payment to your session. (Nothing is charged prior to the completion of each therapy session.)
Everything can be completed electronically, so there is no need to print out or bring anything with you to your first session. The only thing left to do after completing the forms on the portal is to congratulate yourself on taking this big step toward feeling better!
WHAT WILL MY FIRST SESSION BE LIKE?
If you’re feeling nervous about coming to your first session, please know that this is very common. Our job as your therapist is to create a space for you where you will feel safe and comfortable. Your therapist will spend time getting to know you, understanding who you are, and the experiences you’ve had in your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but we will be with you every step of the way.
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HOW MANY SESSIONS SHOULD I EXPECT TO HAVE? HOW OFTEN WILL I BE COMING IN?
No two people are the same, so this will depend on your personal situation and needs. However, in our experience, we’ve seen the best results when clients come in initially for at least 6 weekly sessions, so we recommend planning for this.
After that point, your therapist will talk to you about the pace and progress of your sessions, and you will determine together if it makes sense to continue weekly, or to move to biweekly sessions.
Every couple of months, your therapist will again check in with you and evaluate to make sure the pace is right for you. You may choose to stay at a biweekly frequency, or move to monthly sessions.
Or, you may be feeling so much better that you end ongoing therapy at that point and will reach out to your therapist on an “as-needed” basis. Long story short – the amount and pacing of sessions is always up to you. We will help guide you in these decisions based on your circumstances, needs, and goals.
We hope you now feel like you know what to expect as you get started with therapy at Tustin Counseling. There’s no need to wait any longer to feel better. Schedule with us today!
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