mental notes, answered
Starting Therapy: The Basics & First-Time Doubts
Do I have to spill my life story right away?
Nope. This isn’t a confessional, and you’re not on a deadline. You share what you’re ready to share, when you’re ready. We go at your pace, not some imaginary “therapy timeline.”
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
Totally normal. You don’t need a script. Some of the most meaningful sessions start with “I have no idea what to say.” I’m here to help guide the process, you're not expected to carry it alone.
Can I bring notes? Or a list of things I want to talk about?
Absolutely. Some people find it helpful to come prepared. Others process best in the moment. There’s no one right way.
What if I don’t know how to explain what I’m feeling?
That’s okay, you don’t need to have the perfect words. We’ll work through it together, even if everything feels like a big, tangled ball of emotion.
What Therapy Is (and Isn’t)
Are you just going to nod and ask, “And how does that make you feel?”
Nope. I’m not a passive listener. I’ll reflect back what I notice, ask honest questions, and gently challenge patterns if I see them. Therapy with me is collaborative and real, not rehearsed or robotic.
Is therapy just talking?
It’s talking, but not just rambling. We explore patterns, shift old beliefs, build emotional tools, and get under the surface. It’s not about endlessly dissecting your past unless that’s where the healing needs to happen.
Will you give me advice?
Sometimes. But mostly, I’ll help you find your answers. Therapy isn’t about me handing out fixes, it’s about you getting clear, confident, and connected to what actually works for you.
Do you actually care, or is this just a job?
I care. Genuinely. But I also hold clear boundaries, because that’s what makes therapy effective and safe. I’m not your friend, and I’m not trying to be. I’m here to show up fully, walk beside you, and help you do the real work.
What If It’s Uncomfortable?
Will it be uncomfortable?
Probably. And that’s not a bad thing. Real growth isn’t always cozy, it can be messy, emotional, even frustrating. But it’s also where the good stuff happens. My job is to help you stay grounded while you grow.
Is it normal to feel worse before I feel better?
Sometimes, yes. Digging into deep stuff can stir things up before it settles. But that’s not a bad sign, it means you’re working through the real stuff.
What if I say something I’ve never told anyone before?
That’s actually one of the most powerful things therapy can offer: a place to speak the unspeakable. It can feel terrifying, and freeing.
What if I feel like I’m not making progress?
Talk about it. I can help reflect on what’s happening and adjust the approach. Progress isn’t always linear, it can look like circles or zigzags.
Your Voice, Your Space
Can I swear in sessions?
Yes. If swearing is how you express yourself, go for it. This is your space, not a classroom. Authenticity over polish, always.
Is it okay to talk about “small stuff” like work stress or dating?
Absolutely. “Small stuff” often leads to big insights. Therapy is for anything that affects your life, mood, or peace of mind.
What if we don’t click?
Therapy only works if there’s trust. If it doesn’t feel right, we’ll talk about it openly, no awkwardness or guilt. And if I’m not the right fit, I’ll help you find someone who is. That’s part of the work too.
Time, Fit & Commitment
How long is this going to take?
That depends on your goals. Some people come for a few months, others for longer-term work. I don’t push timelines or packages. We check in regularly to make sure therapy is still working for you.
How do I know if it’s “working”?
Therapy is often gradual. You might notice shifts like feeling more self-aware, less reactive, or more able to cope. Sometimes change is subtle, sometimes transformative.
Can I stop therapy and come back later?
Yes. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever. You can pause and return when it feels right. Life has seasons, and therapy can, too.
Practical Stuff
How confidential is therapy, really?
It’s highly confidential, with a few legal exceptions (like risk of harm). I will explain these clearly in your first session.
Still have questions? Want to book a session?