Not knowing what to expect is one of the biggest reasons people put off starting therapy. So here’s the whole process, step by step.
Step 1: Reach out
Call or text 678-664-4003. There’s no online booking form — a real person gets back to you. You don’t need to have the right words ready. “I think I’d like to start therapy” is plenty.
Step 2: A free consult
We start with a short, free virtual conversation. No paperwork and no commitment. You tell me a little about what’s bringing you in, ask any questions about how I work, and we decide together whether it’s a good fit. If it isn’t, I’ll help point you toward someone who might be.
Step 3: Intake paperwork
Once you decide to move forward, you’ll get access to the SimplePractice client portal for intake forms, scheduling, and billing. Please complete your intake paperwork at least 24 hours before your first appointment. That gives me time to review it, so we can use your session for you instead of for forms.
Step 4: Your first session
The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. We’ll talk about:
- What’s bringing you in right now
- Relevant background — health, family, work, past counseling
- What you’d like to be different when therapy is working
I’ll also walk you through confidentiality: what stays between us, and the few situations where the law requires a counselor to share information, such as a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. Ask anything you want here.
You don’t have to tell your whole story in one sitting. You set the pace.
After the first session
Together we’ll shape a plan: what we’re working on, how often we’ll meet, and which approaches fit you. Depending on your goals, that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, or Solution-Focused Therapy. The plan isn’t fixed. We adjust it as you go.
Good to know
- Virtual or in-office. Virtual sessions are available anywhere in Georgia, Florida, Idaho, and Texas. In-office sessions are in Hinesville, GA.
- For virtual sessions, find a private spot where you won’t be overheard, with a steady connection.
- Insurance. Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Humana, Tricare, Optum, and Magellan are accepted. A superbill is available for out-of-network reimbursement.
- Childcare. Children aren’t permitted in session, virtual or in-office, so plan ahead.
- Cancellations. Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule.
One more thing
The relationship with your counselor matters. If something isn’t working — the pace, the approach, anything — say so. That conversation is part of therapy, not a problem with it.