Your first session
What happens in a first session
It lasts 60 minutes. You do not have to tell us what happened.
Bertha explains how she works, the limits of confidentiality and the possible risks and benefits of therapy. She asks about what you need from the hour and how it is private to reach you. At the end you both decide whether to continue.
What to expect
Sixty minutes, in the office or by video
A written fee before you begin
Your questions first
No homework, and no pressure to return
Step by step
Before, during and after
- 01
Before
You write or call. We ask how it is private to reach you, and we send your fee in writing, with a Good Faith Estimate if you pay without insurance.
- 02
During
We talk about how we work and what you want. You choose how much to say, and you can pause at any point.
- 03
After
We agree on a next step, or no next step. If you would like an advocate, we help you reach one.
A note
What you do not have to do
Tell your story
Some people never do, and therapy can still help. Say only what you want to.
Decide about anyone else
We do not ask you to decide about a relationship, a home or the law. That is yours, with the people you trust.
Come back
If one session is enough, that is fine. If you want more, we plan the pace together.
Questions
Three questions people ask
What happens in the first session?
It lasts 60 minutes. Bertha explains how she works, the limits of confidentiality and the possible risks and benefits of therapy, and she listens. You do not have to tell her what happened. At the end you both decide whether to continue.
How often are sessions, and how long?
Sessions are 50 minutes, usually weekly or every other week. Your counselor sets the pace with you, and there is no set number of sessions.
Will anyone know I am coming?
We do not call, text or mail anything unless you choose it, and the contact form asks how it is private to reach you, including whether a voicemail is fine. The quick exit button leaves this site at once, but your browser may still keep the history, so use a private window or another device.
Write when you are ready
We reply within one business day, the way you asked.