We get started with a free 15-min video consultation. Once we decide that we are a good fit for ongoing therapy, we will make an initial 75-min intake session.

The most critical component throughout the process of therapy is the goodness of fit for both the therapist and the patient. Strong research shows that the number one predictor of progress in therapy is the connection between patient and therapist. Feeling comfortable, safe, and heard are three indicators that you are experiencing a good fit. I assess for goodness of fit based on my skillset with my patients’ needs, and how we operate together as people, knowing that the better the fit, the better the therapy.

Whew. How much time do I have? Alright here we go:

1.Self-awareness: You can’t improve what you don’t know about yourself. Therapy sheds light on your blindspots so you can improve them (if you’d like to).

2. Emotional Intelligence: Imagine the power you’d have if you understood your emotions, how to respond to them in a healthy way, and how to utilize your emotions to connect with others in a meaningful way? Right?

3. Communication Skills: Therapy can help you learn boundaries and assertiveness so that you can use your energy for the things that matter most to you. You can say no and ask for what you need in healthy ways with less guilt. You can also learn how to talk through conflict in productive ways. Strong communication skills are the basis for great relationships of all kinds.

4. Healing: Talking with someone to process the wounds and grief you carry can be incredibly cathartic. It’s a relief to be heard and understood in a nonjudgmental way by someone who genuinely wants to understand your experiences. Healing in therapy is a model for the for healing you can learn to do on your own and with the people you care about.

5. Progress on Your Goals: Good therapy is highly goal driven based on whatever is important to you to accomplish in all facets of your life (self-discovery, relationship skills, grief healing, career, family, identity). Cassandra can help you identify what’s important to you, how to spend your time and heart, and help you be accountable. It’s the most tangible way to know if you are making progress.

6. Increased Confidence: Understanding yourself better, healing, living in line with your values and goals, improving your relationships, and building a deep, meaningful relationship with a therapist often has the effect of improving confidence and self-esteem. Patients feel better about themselves when they are working on the areas of their life that matter to them.

Every therapist approaches the process differently. My approach is an active, shared talk-therapy experience based on curiosity and respect. I honor the unique identity and needs of each of my patients with a focus on helping them clarify their values and goals that they would like to move towards. My work is intentional, honest, and authentic. Some sessions will look like a series of questions (eg. Initial Intake Assessment), other sessions utilize worksheets (eg. Values Discovery process), and many sessions are look like a relaxed conversation about where you are at and the best support and strategies for your continued growth.