Deciding to start therapy can take a lot of courage. For many people the hardest part isn’t the therapy itself. It’s the not knowing: what to say, what will happen, and whether it will help. Here is a simple walk-through of what starting therapy at Healing Harbor usually looks like.
1. Reaching out
You don’t need a referral, a diagnosis, or the perfect words. You can schedule a phone call, call, or send a short message through our contact form. A note as simple as “I’m interested in therapy for myself” is enough.
Please keep personal health details out of the form and email. We’ll talk about those privately.
2. A short phone call
The first conversation is a chance to get a feel for each other. You can share a little about what’s bringing you in, ask about in-person or telehealth sessions, and talk through cost and insurance. There’s no pressure to decide anything on the call.
3. Paperwork and your first session
If it feels like a good fit, we’ll schedule your first session and send intake paperwork ahead of time. The first session is mostly about getting to know you: what you’re hoping will change, what you’ve already tried, and what matters most to you. We’ll also review confidentiality and how therapy works.
It’s normal to feel nervous, to cry, or to not know where to start. You’re allowed to go slowly.
4. Building a plan together
Over the next few sessions we’ll shape a plan that fits you. Depending on what you’re working on, it might draw on approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT-informed skills, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, or nature-based work. If you’d like your faith or personal values to be part of the process, they can be. If not, they won’t.
A good fit matters
Research consistently shows that the relationship between you and your therapist is one of the most important parts of therapy. It’s okay to ask questions, give feedback, and say what is or isn’t working. That’s part of the process.
If you’re ready to take a first step, or just want to ask a question, we’d be glad to hear from you.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988 or call 911.
