Megen A. Macdonald, LMHC

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THERAPY

Generally, the process begins with a phone conversation and a scheduling of an initial appointment / interview. During this meeting, I will be collecting information about  the current concerns that brought you to therapy, as well as some historical information related to those concerns. You will be encouraged to ask any questions and provide any information that you think will be helpful. You will also be  encouraged to share any concerns you have about the therapeutic process at this time. By the next session we will be developing a clear picture of the issues and establishing contributing factors and their relationship to the symptoms. This is when we will begin to develop a plan of treatment.

Therapy is a collaborative process. In order to experience the desired outcomes, it is important that you play an active role in your therapy. In session we will explore strategies geared towards reaching desired outcomes of therapy that need to be applied outside of therapy. Providing feedback, personal observation,  insights and sometimes work assignments between sessions are often an essential part of the therapeutic process.

I use many different approaches to therapy. This helps me to individualize treatments for each client. However, my basic level approach with all clients is to be open, empathetic, non-judgmental and respectful.

My intention is to provide my clients with an opportunity to be guided and supported respectfully to their own self empowerment.

Initially, weekly or biweekly one hour sessions are the structure of therapy. Of course, this depends on the severity of the issues and the level of support that is needed at the beginning of therapy.