So You’re Going To Counseling:
What to Expect
You’ve made a brave decision. You sent the email or you’ve left the message. Now what? What happens when the counselor contacts you? Will there be counseling during that first contact? Is it like an awkward first date?
Feel free to take a deep breath here. Phone calls can feel hard sometimes, but this one has a plan. I will either email you or call you, depending on your original method of contact, and we will find out if it’s a good time for the 15 minute consultation or if you’d like to schedule it for a later time.
During our 15 minute consultation, we’ll discuss what is leading you to explore counseling at this time in your life. We will consider what makes me an appropriate counselor for you and any barriers to our successful work together. If we choose to work together, we’ll set our first appointment!
Before We Meet:
I will email you a link with the practice policies and intake forms prior to our first meeting. I will also invite you to join your client portal on TheraNest where you will complete the required documents prior to our first appointment. If you have any questions about any of the documents or forms, feel free to ask via email or call our office at 803-801-2752 prior to your appointment. However, rest assured that we will discuss the documentation and Informed Consent, so you will have an opportunity for questions at your first session.
AUTHORIZATION TO RELEASE INFORMATION: There may be times when you and I agree it would be helpful for me to speak with another person to coordinate your care. With the exception of the situations outlined in HIPAA forms, I cannot do this without your written consent. We will always speak about this and you will sign an authorization form in order for this to occur, you will always have an opportunity in session to allow for any questions. However, if we’re unable to meet during session to discuss this authorization, you may contact me directly and coordinate receiving the link for the Standard Authorization for Release of Confidential Patient Information to expedite the coordination of care.
