Taking the first step
can to talk to a therapist can be intimidating. The process of seeing a therapist for the first
time can seem odd and complicated. Generally, when we call a therapist we are in the middle of a difficult time in our own lives; dealing with something new and unknown can be a challenge when we have a lot on our plate already. In order to help make this process as safe
and straightforward as possible, let me shed some light on what you can expect
from me.
Making
contact:
The first step is making
the call. To get in touch with me you can call my voice mail at (925) 337.5029 or email me at sarahgjessop@yahoo.com and
let me know that you are interested in therapy. I will give you a call back and
we will talk for a few minutes, discuss your interest in therapy and how I
might be able to help. At this point, if you feel ready, we will
set up an appointment to meet.
Forms:
There are usually a
number of forms to complete before your first session. In an effort to make the
best use of your time, try to come in 5 minutes before your session to fill out
the paperwork. Normally I'll leave the forms for you in the waiting
room.
First
session:
Generally sessions
are 50 - 60 minutes in length, although some sessions can run 90 minutes or 120
minutes depending on the type of therapy. If a session were planned for a time
over the usual 50-60 minutes, we would discuss and agree upon the change prior to the appointment.
The purpose of the
first session is for us to get to know each other. I would love to hear your
story, to learn about what prompted you to seek therapy and to talk about your
goals and visions for your future. You will have a chance to see my office, to
get to know me and to hear more about how I do therapy.
Length
of therapy:
After a few sessions,
if you like, I will be able to give you an idea of the length of therapy to
achieve your goal. The amount of time expected for therapy depends on a number
of factors: your reason for seeking treatment, the therapeutic techniques and
approach being used, social and environmental factors, as well as your personal
involvement in the therapeutic process outside of the session. If you want to speed up your therapy process, I can give you homework assignments to do
between sessions, suggest books to read and ask you to reach out for support from
additional sources. As with any other process, you get out of therapy what you
put in to it. And also as with any other natural process it does take time.
Payment:
Payment for the
session can be made through check or
cash. Generally, I collect the fee at the end of our session. The fee per
individual session is between $40 and $80 based on ability to pay. If these
rates are not affordable for you, talk to me about scholarship rates or
referrals.
Why
Psychotherapy?
There are many reasons for seeking therapy. Some people choose to come
to therapy because there is something in their life that they would like
to change or achieve. Some have had a life-transition for which they would like support and
guidance. And some come in response to some kind of loss (loved one, relationship, job, physical health, etc). Whatever the reason, I am here to to help without judgment.
Preparation
for Psychotherapy?
It is important to me that you be fully informed regarding the nature of treatment, the fees involved, and the expectations and requirements of treatment. The psychotherapy relationship will only begin once you have signed the consent.
It is important to me that you be fully informed regarding the nature of treatment, the fees involved, and the expectations and requirements of treatment. The psychotherapy relationship will only begin once you have signed the consent.
More information on the responsibilities and rights of the therapist and
client, emergency situations and crises, confidentiality and limits of
confidentiality, is available on the consent forms for therapy.
