What to Expect In Counseling

Anda Jines MS LCPC

If you haven’t been in therapy before, you might have some questions about what to expect.  Every therapist and office has their own approach to getting you started in therapy.  Here is a description of what you can expect with me, although it may vary from client to client, based on your needs.

Setting up a Counseling Appointment

Usually a client will call me (708-429-6999, ext. 229) to schedule an appointment.  When you first call, I will ask for a very brief overview of your concerns, to confirm that counseling sounds appropriate, and that I would be the right counselor for you to work with.  If we conclude that I cannot help you, then I will assist you in finding someone who can.  I will also ask for your phone number, what insurance you’ll be using, how you heard about my services, and when you are available.  This is also a good opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have, and to get directions to our office.

Opening Paperwork

When you first come in, you will need to be here about 5-10 minutes early, so that you can fill out our opening paperwork.  There’s actually not very much to fill out.  Most of the opening packet is made up of disclosures for you to read.  Usually there will be a receptionist who can call me to let me know you have arrived.  If there is no receptionist, then you will find the opening packets to the left of the receptionist window, on the wall.  Make sure you pick one marked for “adults” rather than “children” or “testing.”  Go ahead and fill it out, and I’ll come get you at our scheduled time.

Helping You Feel Comfortable

It is important to me that you feel comfortable while in my office.  Therefore, I explain confidentiality, I use sound-screens, I want you to know that all my services are voluntary, and I ask about any preferences or concerns you may have.

At Hoover and Associates we have a spacious reception area with a large screen TV, playing relaxation and educational DVDs; as well as a patient library from which you can check out books.  On your way from reception to my individual office, you can choose from a variety of snacks and drinks.  And in my office you will find a “soothing station” and couple of comfortable arm-chairs.  We also strive to keep our suite aesthetically pleasing.

First Session

In the first session, I will start by making sure that we are in agreement about our payment arrangements, and I will make sure we have the necessary forms signed.  That usually takes about 5-10 minutes.  It is customary for me to communicate with my clients’ primary care providers, psychiatrists, and/or pain management doctors (only with your written permission of course).  If there is anyone else you would like me to communicate with, we would need to get your written permission for that as well.  Therefore, it would be helpful if you had their contact information with you.  Then we can start on the intake evaluation.

Intake Evaluation

During the intake evaluation, I will first ask you about your current stressors, symptoms, and coping methods.  Then we will move on to more general information about you and your background.  The intake evaluation can take anywhere from one to four sessions, depending on your communication style and the complexity of your issues.  From this I can give you feedback about what strengths and concerns I see, make an initial diagnosis and offer recommendations.  And please remember, if you ever have any questions, feel free to ask them during any session.

Treatment Planning

When we’re done with the intake evaluation, we will create a treatment plan by writing down a few goals.  This is also when we will discuss how we want to approach your problems, and estimate how long we intend to work together.  A typical length for a treatment plan is 3 months.  Some people prefer a shorter treatment plan, and others prefer 6 months.  Length of treatment depends on the nature and severity of your issues and your preference.  Usually clients will continue therapy for the length of several treatment plans.  Keep in mind that all services are voluntary, and you can decide to stop at any time.  However it is usually necessary to attend at least 6-8 sessions to see any meaningful results.

Treatment

Because each person (or couple, or family) is unique, the psychotherapy treatment I provide is individually tailored.  I draw on many psychological theories and use a variety of techniques, depending on what I believe is most appropriate and effective in each case.  It is very important to me to be effective, and to make a positive and real difference in your life; therefore I rely on research and experience to guide my decisions in therapy.  I also make it a priority to be genuine and straightforward with you, and to treat you as a whole person, rather than a label or diagnosis.  Click these links for more information about counseling and my approach to counseling.

Treatment Plan Review

After the agreed upon time, we will review your treatment plan, check in about your progress, and adjust our goals or approach if necessary.  Most people continue for another three months after the first three, and many continue longer.  After all, for many people, the problems that bring them into therapy have been developing over many years, if not their whole life.  Therapy does help, but it may take time.  Click here for information on how to get the most out of therapy.

Ending Treatment

As you start to feel better, get control over your life, and need less support, we will reduce the frequency of treatment.  Usually we will start out meeting weekly, then switch to every other week, then possibly a few sessions at once per month, and then stop treatment.  If you prefer not to take this gradual approach, and decide to suddenly end treatment, it is a good idea to meet one more time and talk about your reasons for stopping, what you’ve gotten out of therapy so far, what other support systems you have available, and how you plan to manage your issues independently.  Or, you might want to take a break from treatment for a little while, what’s called a “therapy vacation,” and then continue after a couple of months.

Resuming Treatment

After finishing therapy, you may feel the need for a “booster session” or two, just to help keep yourself on track with your goals.  Or, you might run into a tough situation, and need a little extra support for a few sessions.  Also, some people find it helpful to have several “rounds” of therapy throughout their lives.  Different issues may come up in different circumstances, or you may see things from a new perspective as you grow and learn throughout life.  It may be helpful to see the same therapist again, even years after your initial treatment, simply because they already know you.  But then again, a new therapist might be able to approach your issues from a new angle.  Knowing that it is normal to participate in therapy more than once, can help people feel comfortable with seeking therapy when they need it.

I hope this gives anyone new to counseling an idea of what to expect.  If you have any further questions, or to make an appointment, feel free to call me at 708-429-6999.

Offering counseling services in the southwest suburbs of Chicago, for Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Forest, Mokena, and surrounding areas.