What to Expect in Therapy: Your First Steps Toward Healing
Starting therapy can be a significant step toward personal growth and mental well-being. At Bluebird Counseling Center LLC, we understand that the process can feel both exciting and a little daunting. To help you prepare, here’s a detailed guide on what to expect during your initial sessions.
- Initial Contact: Getting Started
Your journey begins with an initial contact to our office, either by e-mail, website inquiry, or phone call. During this discussion, our goal is to understand your general concerns and ensure that you’re matched with a therapist who can assist in your areas of need. We will also discuss your insurance provider and determine whether it is a plan we accept, or explore alternative payment arrangements for your counseling sessions. During this contact, we will discuss potential scheduling options, if something can be scheduled, we will need the client’s full name, date of birth, e-mail address, and primary care provider practice.
After this initial contact, we will get you set up in our TherapyNotes EHR, which will send you an e-mail to create your portal. Once we have your completed documentation, including your insurance information, we will verify your insurance benefits to the best of our ability, providing you with an overview of the expected costs based on the information we receive. Please remember that this estimate isn’t a guarantee, as insurance companies may not fully guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Nevertheless, we strive to give you a clear understanding of your estimated out-of-pocket costs as a courtesy.
- Paperwork: A Necessary Step
We know that paperwork can seem tedious, but it plays a vital role in the therapeutic process. After your initial call, you will receive an email from TherapyNotes inviting you to sign up for your client portal. Through this secure portal, you’ll be able to access and complete all necessary documents.
We ask that all paperwork be completed within a couple days of the TherapyNotes portal invitation being received, but at least 48 hours in advance of your scheduled intake appointment. This helps to streamline the process and ensures that your appointment can proceed as planned. If the paperwork is not completed by that time, your appointment may need to be rescheduled.
- The First Session: Building the Foundation
Your first session will primarily focus on gathering further background information based on the paperwork you submitted. While it may feel a bit awkward to share personal details with someone you just met, this session is crucial for both you and your therapist. It’s an opportunity to get to know one another and assess whether working together would be a good fit.
- More Than Just Questions
The intake process is not merely about answering questions; it allows your therapist to evaluate your needs and understand how their clinical experience aligns with what you’re looking for. This time also enables you to gauge if you feel comfortable and understood by your therapist.
- Ask Questions
We encourage you to ask any questions you may have during the intake appointment. Your comfort and openness are essential for a successful therapeutic journey. Remember, this is your venture, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
- The Path Forward
After completing the intake process, you will have the opportunity to decide whether you want to continue with regularly scheduled sessions. If at any point you feel that it isn’t the right fit, it’s perfectly acceptable to decline further sessions. Our priority is that you feel comfortable and supported throughout your counseling experience.
At Bluebird Counseling Center LLC, we are committed to guiding you on your journey towards mental wellness. If you’re ready to take that first step or have questions about the process, we invite you to reach out to us!
Let’s embark on this journey together! 💖
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