Initial consultation Overview
An initial consultation marks a critical juncture in the therapeutic journey, serving to foster rapport and establish a collaborative foundation between us. This session is designed to facilitate a mutual understanding of your concerns and objectives, while also offering an introduction to my therapeutic approach, the workings of the human brain, and the potential benefits of our collaboration.
To ensure an environment conducive to trust and transparency, I will commence the consultation by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The treatment process will be elucidated, with particular emphasis on its forward-looking, beneficial attributes.
An introductory exploration of brain function will offer insights into the nature of your struggles, equipping you with invaluable knowledge that can support you in managing your concerns, irrespective of the decision to proceed with treatment. This ensures that you leave the consultation feeling enriched, even at this preliminary stage.
Next, I will invite you to share your current challenges, emotions, and desired outcomes. I adopt an empathetic and non-judgmental stance, actively listening to the narrative. I may use open-ended questions to encourage you to elaborate on your goals and explore how you would like your life to be different.
Once I understand your concerns and objectives, I guide you to focus on your strengths, resources, and past successes, helping you recognize your own resilience and capabilities. Following this, we will collaborate to define specific and achievable goals that align with your desired outcomes. The goals are framed in a way that allows you to focus on what you want rather than what you want to avoid, fostering a solution-oriented mindset.
Towards the end of the consultation, I will summarize the key points discussed and ensure the goals and expectations are clear. We may discuss the anticipated number of sessions, the frequency of sessions, and any additional techniques or tools that may be incorporated into the therapy process. At the end of the consultation, you will receive a free audio exercise to do on your own. You will leave equipped with knowledge, directions, and the recording, so you can start your healing journey right away!