Healthy support systems are great and an important part of life.  While a friend or relative may support you with empathy, sometimes we need more than, “wow that sounds hard.”  People often mean well, but when someone says, “Well what I would do…” is just that- for them and not necessarily for you.  When you speak to a therapist, everything, (with some legal limitations*) is confidential and you gain the objective viewpoint of someone who has additional experience and training.

(* Safety issues are the focus and may include your own safety, protected classes- including children, elderly and disabled, and/or threats against others may require mandated reporting and confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.*)

Just like other new appointments, some background paperwork will need to be completed prior to our first meeting.   At the first meeting, we will dive a bit deeper into your background, find out what has worked, what hasn’t worked so well, and what brought you into the office.  The first appointment is not easy as you are asked to share your life with a stranger!  Please know I understand, this is a safe space, with no judgment- as we all have our own paths in life.  The focus is the overarching goal to help you feel better. 

One of the beautiful things about people is we are all different.  We may look like a relative, but our life, and the way we experience the world is unique.  Each person’s situation is different, so there is no way to say for certain how long it will take.  The goal at Restorative Mind Counseling is for you or your family member to feel better as quickly as possible while addressing individual needs.  Some people may need more focused interventions than others, but I believe every person can change their lives.  There is power in having a witness to your life story and a guide when you feel lost.  A referral for medication may be beneficial, and necessary in some cases, but research has shown time and time again that medication coupled with therapy is more effective than medication alone(1).

Please give 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellation fees, and fees for no shows will be assessed.  However, life happens, people get sick, pets get sick, and cars also get sick, and some situations may need to be evaluated individually. 

Negative perceptions or stigmas associated with therapy continue and are real.  I feel strongly about not giving ultimatums, but advise an approach of encouragement and keeping an open mind- like trying a new experience or food.  And when they make it into the office,  it's a big step and should be celebrated!  Collaboration is key to this approach, and I feel confident that even a single visit can be helpful. 

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Lao Tzu