What Can I Expect?

Calling to Schedule

When you call, the therapist will ask you for information to assist in getting started:

  • In general terms, why are you seeking counseling? Have you received counseling in the past?

  • Are there any needs related to language, culture, or accessibility?

  • If you are planning on using your health insurance benefit, please have your insurance information available

After the phone call, you will receive an email confirming the first appointment and giving you relevant information about Briargrove, fees, and providing access to your new client portal. The client portal will have all the introductory paperwork as well as information regarding the process of counseling, privacy practices, etc. All your paperwork is handled electronically so no paperwork will be needed on the day of your first appointment (unless requested)!

Your First Appointment

The first session I will go over the process of therapy. Together, we will discuss your client rights to receive excellent care. This information, along with any intake paperwork , will be made available to you prior to session through your client portal. I will take time to get to know you and learn about your goals for therapy. Sessions are approximately 45-55 minutes long for individuals and 90-120 minutes for couples. (Couples using insurance may be limited to 45-53 minute sessions. Check with your insurance to determine exact length covered)

Children As Clients

When parents bring a child under the age of 12, the therapist may have a preference as to begin with the parent(s) alone or by meeting with the parent(s) and child together.

Either way it is helpful to bring along all relevant documents that may be informative. These might include copies of:

  • Hospital Discharge Summaries

  • Psychological Evaluations

  • IEP or 504 Plans

  • Results of any testing that has been done

  • Custody/Divorce Decrees

  • Joint Parenting Agreements

  • Custody Evaluations

Note for Divorce Situations

If you are involved in a divorce or custody litigation, please remember the role of a therapist is not to make recommendations for the court concerning custody or parenting issues or to testify in court concerning opinions on issues involved in the litigation. Counseling for children at Briagrove does not include recommendations concerning parental responsibilities or parenting plans. Instead, we are focused on supporting and helping children through the process.

If one parent is seeking therapy for a child but the child is covered under the OTHER parent’s insurance policy, we will need the insured’s information to file the claim. Additionally, it is expected that the attending parent will pay all fees at the time of service and personally take care of reimbursement.