What to Expect
Making the process of counseling an accessible and transparent process
Having an idea of how therapy- and preparing for therapy- may look can help you to feel more relaxed about embarking on this new adventure
We’ve highlighted some of the key points of your therapeutic journey to detail and explain. Ferreras Counseling holds respect and transparency in high esteem within our practice at every stage. Read on to get an idea of what you can expect
When you’ve taken the first steps but you’re not sure how things will look now, let us support you in feeling confident about the changes you’re making
Intake
How to prepare for counseling
Your intake process will be a lot like intake for school or doctor’s appointments. You can expect paperwork- collecting your history, personal information and background is important to making a good match with your clinician. Once matched, they will interview you to ascertain your needs and align them with their style and purpose so you feel respected and heard from the very first appointment. These forms may be filled out in the office or online
Investment
How your time and money will be spent on your wellbeing
Our intake appointments cost $150, and your routine appointments beyond it will be $85. You’ll be able to pay by cash or card, and we do accept most Massachusetts insurance plans.
Your first appointment will be between 45-60 minutes to ensure we are well-acquainted. Follow-ups will be between 30-40 minutes to balance a healthy respect for your time and commitment to your wellbeing.
Money can be a barrier to receiving the mental health support you crave, and asking about it can be uncomfortable. We want to be transparent about what you can expect financially in coming to join us at Ferreras Counseling for your healing journey.
* Cancellation policy: No fee for cancellations more than 24 hours ahead of the appointment. Within 24 hours, there is a $35 fee.
Reach out to our admissions coordinator with questions about your insurance plans
Your First Appointment
Getting to know someone, especially in such a personal manner, can feel invasive. We aim to make it as comfortable as possible for you while your therapist will spend time learning as much as they can about you
What to bring
Yourself! That’s the most important part. Bring an open mind that’s ready to learn, grow and get vulnerable to reach for your healing is imperative to our progress
Otherwise, documents related to your treatment like insurance or court papers will be helpful as well
Etiquette & Expectation
Approach your therapy appointment with as much vulnerable curiosity as you can muster. We are here to help you grow and heal, not to judge you
Whether we are meeting in person or via telehealth, your confidentiality is important so please ensure you have a private space and the dedicated time to commit to your appointment
When and how long?
Your first appointment is likely to be your longest as you get to know your therapist. We will decide on a time together, based on your schedule and that of your chosen provider
You’ll meet in our office or in a private space for your telehealth appointment, and can anticipate being with your therapist for about an hour
Establishing a routine
Once your first appointment is done, we will find a schedule that empowers your accountability in caring for your mental health and helps your therapist push that forward
You can expect:
Visits on a regular basis. Most common schedules are weekly, bi weekly, or monthly, depending on our goals.
Consistent communication regarding when to schedule, how and how long those appointments will be
A clear cancellation policy* and updates about any changes that may mean missed or changed appointments
Transparency and respect, always
What will a typical appointment be like?
Different therapists have different styles, so the way your appointment looks will be curated based on your therapist’s expertise, your needs, and where you left off at your last session.
Some providers like to start the session by asking about the here and now- your mood, thoughts, and feelings. Reviewing homework tasks, thought projects, or recapping the time since you last met can help to flush up those occurrences and feelings with everything else you’ve discussed before.
Some providers may approach each session with a specific outline- a plan of what you’ll cover and how you’ll move through it. This structured style can help move you linearly toward specific goals you’ve established together.