I Think Therapy Might Help—Now What?

You think you might want to talk with someone, but you’re not sure what to do or how it works? Deciding to start therapy can be liberating, but may also come with some questions. Outlined below are the steps toward getting started at Firm Foundation Family Services. Our goal is to use the truth of Scripture to exhort and support you toward security and strength as you navigate the ups and downs of life. Our hope is that preparing you with what to expect might make it a little easier to take the first step.

Step 1: Schedule an Initial Therapy Consultation

Finding the right therapist means more than simply calling the practice closest to your home or office. We are happy to field inquiries and answer basic questions prior to you committing to your first appointment. You can reach any of our clinicians directly by submitting a contact form through our website. We are available to email or, if you prefer a live conversation, we offer a 15-minute complimentary consultation phone call. You can ask questions, share a summary of your needs, and decide if you are ready to move forward with scheduling a session. 

You can also learn more about our therapists, their credentials, specialties, and approaches to care before reaching out.

Step 2: What to Do Before Your First Therapy Session

Once you schedule your first session, your therapist will send you an email invitation to an online client portal. This portal is confidential and HIPAA-compliant, providing a secure platform where the two of you can communicate directly. Review and sign your intake paperwork before your first meeting. Each form is important for setting expectations or helping your therapist get to know you and your circumstances. If you have questions or concerns about any of the forms, please alert your therapist so we can address them. We strive to be clear in our communication so you can be confident as we get started.

Step 3: What to Expect From Your Therapist

Your therapist is eager to get to know you and understand how she can help. Some therapists lead with a structured initial session involving specific questions; others may foster a more conversational tone. No matter her style, your therapist will ask questions relevant to serving you in therapy. Questions may touch on what prompted you to seek support; your hopes, goals, and expectations for therapy; personal or family history; current challenges; available resources or supports; or significant events, life stages, or transitions that may be impacting you. Your therapist is genuinely interested in knowing you and is committed to serving your best interests through respectful and direct communication. 

Your therapist may invite you to pray together; at 3FS we believe the Holy Spirit is the ultimate agent of positive change in any therapy situation. You are welcome to decline if you prefer not to pray together in session. We are here to meet you where you are and accompany you in your current struggles. The first session is a chance for you to share what’s on your mind and begin to build rapport and trust with your therapist. 

Your Role in the Therapy Process

As the client, you have an important role to play in the therapy process. Your therapist will encourage you to think, reflect, self-assess, consider alternative views, and make decisions. Every question asked and observation offered is an opportunity for you, the client, to take stock of your own situation and circumstances and move forward with clarity and conviction. The first session focuses primarily on information gathering; as sessions continue, your therapist will guide you toward more exploration and assessment of motivations, desires, hindrances, challenges, hurts, and areas of growth or maturity. As with many endeavors, the attention and effort you put into your own process will often determine the value of the therapy. Your therapist does not solve your problems, but is there to support you and point you toward the strength available to you through the Lord Jesus. 

After Your First Therapy Session: What Happens Next?

Our hope is that you will feel welcome, respected, and listened to in your first session. Your therapist will invite you to discuss ongoing sessions, finding a suitable schedule to continue meeting together. We encourage you to plan on meeting on a consistent weekly or bi-weekly basis. Regular and frequent sessions are helpful in building rapport and establishing momentum, especially for the first several sessions. 

If you have any hesitation after your first session to continue, we hope you’ll bring up these issues with your therapist so we can address your concerns. Supporting our clients well involves establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship. This includes addressing potential difficulties or conflicts openly. If you are unsure about coming back, please say so. It is our honor to explore how to best serve you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting Therapy

How do I know if it’s time to start therapy?

You do not need to wait until you are in crisis to consider therapy. People seek counseling for many reasons, including relationship challenges, anxiety, grief, family conflict, life transitions, parenting concerns, or simply feeling stuck. If something is affecting your relationships, emotional well-being, or ability to navigate daily life, talking with a therapist may be a helpful next step.

How do I find the right therapist in Ashburn, VA?

Finding the right therapist involves considering the counselor’s experience, credentials, therapeutic approach, and how comfortable you feel talking with them. At Firm Foundation Family Services in Ashburn, Virginia, prospective clients can start with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to ask questions, briefly discuss what brings them to counseling, and determine if the therapist may be a good fit.

What happens during the first therapy session?

Your first therapy session is primarily an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know one another. Your therapist may ask about what prompted you to seek counseling, your personal and family history, current challenges, important relationships, and your goals for therapy. You will also begin discussing what ongoing counseling might look like based on your individual needs.

Do I have to be a Christian to receive counseling at Firm Foundation Family Services?

No. Firm Foundation Family Services welcomes clients from different backgrounds and respects each client’s beliefs and values. Our therapists practice from a Biblical worldview and can incorporate Scripture, prayer, and Christian faith into counseling. Clients are welcome to decline prayer or discuss how they would like faith incorporated into their sessions.

Does Firm Foundation Family Services offer in-person therapy in Loudoun County?

Yes. Firm Foundation Family Services provides in-person counseling at our office in Ashburn, Virginia, serving individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families throughout Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. Virtual counseling options may also be available based on your location, clinician, and individual circumstances.

How do I schedule my first therapy appointment at Firm Foundation Family Services?

Start by submitting the contact form on the Firm Foundation Family Services website. You can ask questions by email or request a complimentary 15-minute consultation call before scheduling your first appointment. Once your session is scheduled, your therapist will send instructions for completing your intake paperwork through a secure client portal.