Getting Started with Counseling at Allies in Hope
Whether this is your first counseling experience or the tenth, starting the process can be confusing, scary or intimidating. Here is a breakdown of what to expect when starting the counseling relationships with me to help ease some of the nerves. Setting up a session is the first step.
Scheduling sessions
When scheduling sessions, my staff and I try to work with your schedule and mine to try to find the best time possible. We try to schedule at the same time for recurring sessions but I am also flexible around your schedule. Typically, I have availability Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
I will also refer you to this website for the intake form which will need to be completed prior to our first session. All forms are located at the bottom of this page.
First Session
The first session is referred to as our intake session. Each counselor has their own unique style to counseling. This is also true of the intake session. I use the intake to get to know everyone from individual sessions to large families.
There is a waiting area when you first come into the suite and I will come get you when it is time for our session. I’ll provide you with a Professional Disclosure Statement (PDS) to read through and sign.
This document discusses my belief of therapy, theoretical orientation and client rights. At this point, if you haven’t completed the intake form, I’ll provide you with a copy to complete.
We will also discuss fees, confidentiality, mandatory reporting, what to do in an emergency, technology in therapy, as well as what to do if there is a conflict with me. This is a great time to also discuss any questions you have and your thoughts about counseling.
Payment for sessions is always done at the beginning. Each session is 50 minutes and we will discuss what brings you into counseling after getting to know you. Sessions will end with a conversation about if you feel that you can work with me as we schedule the next session.
I always like to remind clients that it often gets harder before it gets better. But, real change can happen if you put in the work and effort.
Forms
Professional Disclosure Statement for Heather Sly-Haley in Salem, Oregon
Notice of Privacy Practices (HIPPA)
Contact today to set up a session.