I often begin by asking, “What brings you into counseling?” Chances are we’ve talked over the phone already during a FREE 15 min consultation so I have some insight. But often times people realize something from that first phone call and they have something new to share. So now we’ll discuss with greater curiosity your reason for coming and the story that brought you to this moment.
We’ll also talk about your wellness overall such as how you’re sleeping, eating and exercising. We’ll take an inventory of any health concerns or if you are on medications (want to be on… or want to be off medication). We’ll address if you have a history of trauma or abuse. Often times for women we’ll touch base on any pregnancy, miscarriage or birth experiences as these can be formative, important moments in your life. We’ll assess any workplace stress and where you feel supported socially.
Basically, the intake is our time to get a big picture of your life and how you’re functioning. With all this out on the table, it’s a perfect opportunity to explore a goal or two. What are you hoping to get out of therapy? Do you have an inkling about a skill that might help and want to learn? Do you have any questions for me about me as a person or counseling? I want to make sure you have all your questions answered.
And that’s it! Whew! Congratulations on making it through your first appointment. Clients often leave feeling a little more hopeful, a little more organized and eager to move forward. If you are ready to get to that place, call for your FREE 15 minute consultation to see if counseling with me could be a good fit for your journey forward.
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