Maggie HollandLMHC

Most of the important things to know about working with me is that I am going to bring my genuine self into our sessions every single time -- we're going to laugh, we might cry, and we're definitely going to work hard. But it's also important to know that I do not tend to sit in an *expert* role that always tells you what to do. Yes, I'm highly trained and will give you as much expertise as I can, but YOU are the expert on YOU, and you have to be involved for this process to work. Collaboration, humor, real feelings, and real hard work are how I roll in sessions.

Our first session, or "intake", will look mostly like me getting to know you better and talking through what is bringing you to therapy. We go over the paperwork that you fill out prior to our intake session, and I usually ask questions to get a clearer/broader picture of what you answered. Our first session is all about setting the foundation for our work together, and it tends to be more informal and getting to know each other. Easy peasy!

First of all, I truly believe every person can benefit from therapy. We should all have a therapist we know and trust that we can go to when things aren't going well. That being said, I think for those who are hesitant to try therapy it could be helpful to know that therapy isn't an invasive and constantly awful process of digging into your past. Therapists listen to your input, and if things are moving too slowly or quickly, they should be open to adjusting things so it isn't overwhelming. Also, therapists are not mind readers! We only know as much as you tell us, so if there's something you aren't ready to talk about yet, that's okay! Therapy is what you make it -- we absolutely can extensively dig through your childhood...or we can just be a supportive and listening ear while you vent about something from your week. Therapists are here to help you deal with the stressors in your life, no matter what they are.

• Washington, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LH.61145282