How to Get Started

Beginning therapy can feel like a big step. I aim to make the process clear, supportive, and straightforward.

Step 1: Schedule a Free Consultation

I begin every therapeutic journey with a free 20-minute video consultation. This allows me to understand what’s bringing you to therapy and ensure that I can confidently support you in your goals. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and determine whether we feel like a good fit.

If we decide to move forward, we will schedule your first online therapy session.

Step 2: Complete Intake Paperwork

Prior to your first appointment, you will receive secure electronic forms through my practice management system, Sessions Health. These documents include:

  • Consent forms

  • Practice policies

  • Demographic information

  • Background and history forms

All paperwork must be completed before our first session to ensure we can use our time together effectively.

Latina woman having a free twenty minute consult with Jennifer Overley, LCSW
Laptop on a desk prepared for intake in initial therapy session

What Do Therapy Appointments Look Like?

Your First Session: The Intake Appointment

Your first therapy session is called an intake session. This appointment is slightly different from a typical therapy visit because its primary purpose is assessment and foundation-building.

During the intake, we will review important information such as:

  • Limits of confidentiality

  • Informed consent

  • Telehealth policies and procedures

  • My approach to therapy

I will also gather a comprehensive history, including what is bringing you to therapy, current stressors, relevant family background, and past experiences. This allows me to develop a thoughtful, individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Ongoing Therapy Sessions

In subsequent sessions, we shift into deeper therapeutic work. If there are specific concerns or goals you would like to focus on, it can be helpful to write them down so we can address them intentionally.

As I get to know you better, I may also offer observations, insights, and structured interventions to help you build coping skills, process experiences, and move toward meaningful change.

Online therapy sessions are collaborative, active, and tailored to your pace and priorities.

What If I Am Interested in Medication or Need Time Off Work?

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I do not prescribe medication. If you are interested in medication management, this would be evaluated and prescribed by a medical provider such as your primary care physician or a psychiatrist.

Similarly, decisions regarding medical leave or extended time off from work must be assessed and authorized by a physician or psychiatrist. If appropriate, I am happy to collaborate with your prescribing provider to ensure coordinated care.

What If Something Doesn’t Sit Well With Me in Therapy?

I genuinely invite you to share that with me.

Therapy is not only a place to process challenges — it is also a safe space to practice advocating for yourself, setting boundaries, and asking for clarification. If I offer feedback that feels uncomfortable, confusing, or upsetting, I encourage you to let me know.

Addressing these moments openly can be a meaningful part of the therapeutic process. Working through misunderstandings or misattunements together often strengthens the therapeutic relationship and helps you practice getting your needs met in a healthy and direct way.