Embrace Your Healing Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin?
We encourage you to read about this counselor to identify if you resonate with her. Feeling comfortable with your counselor is a very important first step. Contact us today (509-436-0295) and we can support you in clarifying if we can assist you with your goals and schedule. Also, we offer a complementary, 10-minute phone consultation with your potential therapist. This allows you to speak to the therapist in advance to share more about your treatment goals and learn about the therapist’s treatment approach to support you in creating a healthier life. We are committed to helping you find the best therapeutic fit. If at any point you feel like you may prefer to work with another counselor, please let us know and we will help you get connected with a new therapist.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
A therapist has the training and experience to help you professionally in ways that others may not be able to help you in. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better, you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
What can I expect during the free, consultation with a therapist?
Contact our office to schedule this complimentary 10 minute phone call. The therapist will call you at the scheduled time. The consultation is an opportunity for you to spend a couple of minutes sharing with the therapist a brief summary about what brings you to counseling and what goals you have. After hearing about areas of concern, the therapist will share some treatment recommendations based on your goals and their treatment approach. It is our hope that at Sage Wellness you will have the best possible fit with your therapist so that you can experience the best possible outcome. If you feel ready to schedule your first appointment, the therapist will assist you in scheduling that while you are on the phone.
How long will I be in therapy for?
What can I expect in the first session?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Determining the length of treatment is a collaborative process that depends on the client's goals and individual case formulation. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
We are delighted you have made the courageous decision to attend counseling! It is a restorative, supportive, healing and life changing experience for our clients. Prior to the session, you will complete online paperwork to share some of your presenting concerns and treatment goals with your counselor. Your counselor will review confidentiality, practice policies with you and answer any questions or concerns. The first mental health therapy appointment is typically an intake session. Your first session is an opportunity for you and your counselor to get to know each other. You and your counselor will discuss what brings you to therapy. I may ask you about your symptoms, school/job, identity, family, friends, and current and past experiences. We will also discuss your goals for therapy and what changes you want to see in your life. Your therapist will begin sharing suggestions or teach you a skill you can begin practicing. At the conclusion of the session, your counselor will share recommendations for treatment and ask for your feedback about how understood and comfortable you felt. We want to ensure you feel each session is meaningful and useful for you.