Most people have apprehensions about "seeing a therapist". At Fayetteville Psychotherapy Associates, we recognize these apprehensions and try to do everything possible to make your therapy experience a positive one. If you have not experienced therapy before, here are some of the things you can expect when you see one of our therapists for the first time: |
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Your first session:
You will be asked to arrive approximately 20 minutes early for your first meeting with your therapist to allow you time to complete your initial paperwork. Our office staff will greet you at the front desk and answer any questions you may have about the paperwork. If you'd like to fill out your paperwork prior to your appointment, you may download the forms here (you will still need to arrive at least ten minutes early).
If you are filing insurance, you will be asked to present a copy of your insurance card. You will complete your paperwork in our waiting room and remain there until your therapist greets you and takes you back to his or her private office for your session. |
 Your first meeting with your therapist:
During your first meeting with your therapist, he or she will be gathering information about you, your history, the issues that have brought you to therapy, and what your goals are for therapy. He or she will make an initial assessment of your situation and will provide you with a recommendation as to how often subsequent therapy sessions should occur, and together, you will formulate a plan for meeting your therapy goals.
This first meeting will last approximately 80 minutes. When your session is completed, your therapist will show you where you may book your next session with our staff and give you any other additional information you might need. |
As therapy proceeds:
Most people find that they are at least a little nervous during their first few sessions. This is very normal, and most individuals find that as they get to know how the therapy process works and begin to become more familar with their therapist, these early "jitters" begin to fade away.
Subsequent Sessions:
When you arrive for subsequent sessions you will be greeted by our office staff who will check you in, accept any applicable payments, and arrange your next appointment for you.
Please feel free to use the restroom and to help yourself to a bottled water while you wait for your therapist to take you back for your appointment. If you have any questions prior to the start of your session, please feel free to ask the office staff for assistance. |
