FAQs

What to Expect in Therapy (For Adult Clients)

What is therapy, really? 

 Therapy is a safe, supportive space to talk about what’s going on in your life — whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, sad, anxious, or just unsure of your next steps. It’s a collaborative process where you and your therapist work together to better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and find healthier ways to cope or grow.

Who will I be talking to?

 You’ll be matched with a graduate student in clinical psychology or mental health counseling who is in advanced training. These students are supervised weekly by licensed psychologists and licensed professional counselors.  This ensures high-quality, ethical, and thoughtful care. Many clients find that student therapists offer a compassionate, attentive, and thoughtful approach.

Do I need to have a mental health “diagnosis” to come to therapy?

Not at all. Some people come to therapy with a specific diagnosis, while others are simply looking for support through a difficult time. Whether you’re dealing with stress, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, or just want a place to explore personal growth — therapy can help.

What happens in the first session?

The first meeting is called an “intake” where your therapist will ask questions about your current concerns, your background, and your goals for therapy. You can also ask questions and decide whether the therapist feels like a good fit. It’s okay to take your time — building trust takes time.

How often will I come to therapy?

 Most clients meet with their therapist once a week. We’ll work with your schedule to find a time that works best for you.

What if I’ve had a bad experience with therapy in the past?

That’s okay. We understand that past experiences may make it harder to try again. We’ll go at your pace, and we welcome your honesty about what’s worked — or hasn’t worked — for you before.

I’ve never done this before and I feel nervous.

That’s completely normal. Many people feel unsure before starting therapy. Just know you don’t have to have it all figured out — we’ll meet you where you are. The hardest part is often just making the first call.

 

What to Expect When Your Child Starts Therapy (For Parents)

Why might my child need therapy?

Children and teens go through a lot — and sometimes, they need extra support. Therapy can help kids manage anxiety, sadness, behavior challenges, school stress, or difficult life events. It also helps them develop tools to express emotions and navigate challenges in a healthy way.

Who will my child work with?

Your child will meet with a doctoral student in clinical psychology who is trained in child and family therapy, under the supervision of licensed psychologists with extensive experience. We use evidence-based practices that are age-appropriate, compassionate, and research-backed.

What happens in the first appointment?

We usually start with an intake session (sometimes includes parent and child; sometimes just your child) to better understand concerns and your child’s history. Then we schedule a first session with your child, where we begin building a trusting relationship. Your child’s comfort and sense of safety are our top priorities.

How involved will I be as a parent?

We partner closely with caregivers and may offer regular check-ins or parent guidance sessions, depending on your child’s age and treatment goals. For younger children, you may be more involved; for teens, we respect their growing need for privacy while still keeping you in the loop.

What types of things will my child do in therapy?

Depending on your child’s age, therapy may include talking, drawing, playing games, or practicing new coping skills. It’s designed to be engaging and supportive while helping your child feel seen and understood.

Will I get updates about my child’s progress?

Yes — we value collaboration with parents. We’ll check in regularly and let you know how things are going, while also respecting your child’s need for confidentiality in certain situations (especially for older kids and teens).

Is this just for “serious” problems?

Not at all. Therapy can help with a wide range of concerns, from big life changes to everyday stress. Early support can make a big difference in helping kids and families thrive.

I feel nervous about bringing my child in.

That’s totally understandable. Reaching out for support shows strength and care. We’re here to make the process as comfortable and clear as possible — and we’ll walk with you every step of the way.

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