new clients

Many people come to their first therapy session with fears, preconceptions, or simply no idea of what to expect.

The information below is meant to give you a clearer picture of what therapy is actually like.

And if you’re wondering about something I haven’t covered, I encourage you to reach out - I’m happy to answer any questions about what working with me might be like.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

There’s no single way a first therapy session looks, but here are some things you can expect when you come in for your first appointment at Elemental

Arriving

I don’t have a waiting room, so if you arrive early you might like to wait at one of these nearby spots:

• The café on the street level of the building (Valhalla Grind)

• The bus stop bench outside the front door

• The local library up the road

• The small park next to the library

  If you arrive early and need shelter or would like to use the bathroom,

  you’re welcome to buzz 211 and I’ll let you into the building. 

  There are several places inside to wait comfortably

  The round seat in the foyer

  The table and chairs between Levels 1 and 2

  The front balcony off the Level 1 kitchen

On your first visit, I’ll meet you at the main entrance and show you around.

Facilities
Restrooms are located at the south end of each floor in the building.

The Therapy Room
My office is a simple space with comfortable seating, a desk, bookshelves, and some plants. You’re welcome to sit however you feel most at ease.

Confidentiality & Policies
What we talk about in session is confidential, with a few legal and ethical exceptions

(outlined in your consent form, which we’ll review together).

If you ever have questions, please ask.

I may also briefly go over practical matters like cancellations, payment, and session length.

To make things easier, I ask clients to pay before their appointment. (Bank transfer - Pay ID - Credit Card)

You can also securely save your card with STRIPE for a hassle free payment process.

The First Conversation
If you haven’t already completed your intake forms, we’ll start there. From there, the session might involve:

• Reviewing your intake information

• Beginning an assessment of your history

• Discussing what brings you in right now

• Or simply talking through what’s most urgent for you

There are no right or wrong things to say. The only thing that can get in the way is feeling like you can’t be honest. If something about me or the process makes you uncomfortable, please let me know - your comfort is important.

Notes
I will take notes during our sessions.

These are securely stored and remain confidential, except in very specific circumstances:

• If you consent to their release

• If I am legally required by a court order

• If you are at risk of harming yourself, someone else, or a child

Other Things to Know

• I always have tissues available.

• We will agree on a regular meeting time so your sessions become your reserved time each week.