Consultation: (Optional) A brief phone meeting to discuss the client’s needs and therapist’s approach helps both determine if they’re a good fit for working together.

Intake and Evaluation: In the first session, the therapist collects vital background information from the client, helping them understand their history and mental health factors, and potentially explaining the diagnostic evaluation process. You can learn more about it here.

Building Rapport: Involves establishing a strong, trusting relationship between the therapist and client which creates a comfortable and supportive environment where the client feels understood and valued, laying the foundation for effective therapy.

Goal Setting: Involves collaboratively establishing specific, achievable objectives between the therapist and client to guide the therapeutic process and measure progress toward desired outcomes.

Treatment Phase: When the therapist and client work together to implement strategies and interventions to address the client’s concerns and achieve therapeutic goals.

Termination: Marks the conclusion of the therapeutic relationship, where the therapist and client reflect on progress made, address remaining issues, and prepare for ending sessions while ensuring a smooth transition and discussing potential future support options if needed.

Time Commitment and Expectation: Mutual agreement between the therapist and client regarding the frequency and duration of sessions and the anticipated timeline for achieving the therapeutic goal, ensuring clarity and accountability throughout the therapeutic process.