Consultation vs. Intake Appointment
Consultation: is a brief call to help determine whether my services, availability, and therapeutic approach may be a good fit for your needs. This is often the best first step if you are still deciding between therapists or have questions before beginning services.
Intake/First Appointment: The first full therapy session, which takes place after consent forms and required intake paperwork have been completed.This appointment involves a more detailed clinical assessment, including your concerns, symptoms, history, goals for therapy, and other information needed to determine an appropriate treatment plan. Because an intake appointment is more in-depth and begins the therapy process, it is generally intended for individuals who are ready to begin therapy services with Isabel.
In summary: A consultation is a brief call to determine general fit before beginning services. An intake/first appointment is a full therapy session that begins the therapy process. If you are still deciding between therapists, a consultation is usually the best first step.