Beginning therapy can bring questions about what to expect and whether the therapeutic relationship will feel right. Your first visit is an opportunity to begin that process without pressure to explain everything or have everything figured out.
Our Integrative Approach to Psychotherapy
Integrative psychotherapy attends to the complexity of a person’s experience, including what is happening in the present moment and the patterns and emotions connecting different parts of their life. It involves synthesizing information as it emerges so the therapeutic process can respond in real time to what is present and needed.
At Embodied Sovereignty Therapy, the process begins with receiving you as you are. Clinical training, professional experience, therapeutic attunement, and intuition inform the work, while your goals, history, identities, relationships, strengths, and current circumstances help shape its direction.
As sessions unfold, attention is given to what emerges through collaboration and conversation, including patterns in thought and emotion, relational experiences, and the ways your nervous system is responding. Depending on what is present, our work may draw from Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, mindful self-compassion, and other supportive practices.
This responsive and collaborative approach can support deeper understanding, meaningful change, and a greater sense of choice, connection, and self-trust.
What to Expect During Your First Online Session
Your first session is an opportunity to further discuss what brings you to therapy, what you hope will be different, and any experiences or concerns that may be important to your care. You do not have to share your entire story at once. The conversation can unfold at a pace that allows you to remain present and engaged.
Your therapist may ask about your current experiences, relevant history, relationships, sources of support, previous experiences with therapy, and what you would like to receive from the process. You are also encouraged to ask questions, let your therapist know if you have preferences for how sessions unfold, and discuss what working together may involve.
Part of the first visit is beginning to determine whether the therapeutic relationship and approach feel like a supportive fit. You and your therapist can discuss possible goals, session frequency, and the next steps in your care. When useful, you may also identify practices, resources, or reflections to explore between sessions.
Preparing for Your Online Session
Before your appointment, choose a private location where you feel comfortable speaking or moving your body, and are unlikely to be interrupted. Check that your internet connection, camera, microphone, and device are working, and complete any requested forms before the session.
You may want to use earbuds for additional privacy and make note of any questions or concerns you would like to discuss. There is no special preparation required beyond creating as much privacy and comfort as your circumstances allow.
Confidentiality
Therapy is confidential, and the information you share is protected by law and professional ethics. There are limited circumstances in which a therapist may be required or permitted to disclose information, including certain safety concerns, suspected abuse or neglect, or when disclosure is otherwise required by law.
Your therapist will review confidentiality and its limits with you as part of the informed-consent process. You are welcome to ask questions about how these protections apply in the state where you receive services. Please refer to our Notice of Privacy Practices for complete information.