Jillian KilburnLPC

A first session with me is relaxed and a get to know each other session. I will ask questions about the person's interests, likes and dislikes. Finding a common ground or similarities in likes helps to build that connection and trust between the therapist and client. When there is a level of trust it's easier for a person to be able to be vulnerable and share the reasons or events that brought that person into therapy.

One of biggest barriers I feel, that people have in seeking therapy is being vulnerable. Being vulnerable can be a very uncomfortable feeling, especially with someone that you don't know. When a person has been turned away for being vulnerable in the past, it makes it even harder for that person to be vulnerable again. That's why I do my best to make sure the person feels welcomed, heard, and acknowledged, so that person will find what they are seeking for in therapy.

Creating a treatment plan is a collaborative approach. Together the client and myself will discuss what the person is looking for in therapy and together create a plan that will help that person reach that goal. Together the client and I will break down that larger goal into smaller goals or steps so that goal can be achieved. As the client and I work together, we will periodically review and reflect on the goals to measure progress and make sure that goal is still what that person wants. Sometimes a goal will change as the person begins to unpack and dive into the reasons they first sought out therapy.

• Michigan, Licensed Professional Counselor, 6401020257