FAQ: Individual Therapy

What should I bring to my first appointment?

For your first appointment, please be sure to bring a valid photo ID, along with a form of payment (cash, check, credit card).

What happens during my first appointment?


During the first appointment, we will start talking about the circumstances bringing you into therapy. While not quite a treatment session, it will give us an opportunity to get to know each other and discuss your concerns. The therapist will ask many questions to gain a deeper understanding of your life and concerns. Our first sessions will inform the course of your treatment.

How long does individual therapy last?

Many factors play into the length of treatment including what the presenting problems are, the severity or the impairment of the problems, as well as how much a person actively participates in treatment. As a general rule of thumb, treatment may take anywhere from 12 to 20 sessions. Please be aware that treatment may be longer or shorter.

FAQ: Group Therapy

How can I join group therapy?
All prospective group members will attend a one-on-one group screening session with a group facilitator to determine eligibility. We conduct group screenings for a few reasons:
  • First, we want to make sure that members are an appropriate fit for group
  • Second, we want to make sure there aren't any contraindications to joining group
  • Third, we have group screenings to answer questions people might have about the group
  • Lastly, we discuss expectations for participating in group
We recommend scheduling group screening appointments as an in-person appointment so you can get a feel for the setting and know how to get to the suite for your first group session.
Do I also need to be receiving individual therapy to take part in group therapy?

No, you do not need to be in individual therapy to take part in the BSC group. However, for individuals experiencing struggles beyond what group sessions can reasonably provide, we may recommend adding individual therapy in order to take part in the BSC group. Examples of such circumstances may include: additional struggles interfering with your life, concerns for safety, or significant social anxiety where additional support is deemed necessary.

Why isn’t there an option to attend the Building Social Confidence group session virtually?

After thorough consideration, we determined it would be best to conduct group therapy sessions in-person. With the BSC group, the very nature of treatment entails entering a social situation that can lead to anxiety activation. It is important for all group members to be fully committed to engaging in treatment and not give in to subtle avoidance behaviors (e.g., calling in sick and attending sessions virtually due to anxiety).

What options exist if I'm interested but not quite ready to join group therapy?

First, it may help to know that this is a common challenge many people experience. If you want to join the BSC group but not quite ready to do so, perhaps you might consider starting off with individual therapy sessions and then transition to group therapy. Some people find this to be an easier way to connect with the BSC group. Please let us know if you are interested in this option during your initial consultation phone call. We will be happy to provide more information.