Photo of Evgenia Feldhstern, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Evgenia Feldhstern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
El Sobrante, CA 94803
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
(510) 757-1853 View (510) 757-1853

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Red Karpman, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Red Karpman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
If you think I'm the right person for you (or your relationship, or your teen), I'd love to hear from you and schedule an introductory consultation.
Sometimes amazing things can grow under pressure. Living with stigma - related to a mind that works differently, a body that's unruly or "too much," or a sexuality that doesn't fit behind a white picket fence - asks us to be creative and fierce. The wisdom that can grow here is astounding. But the burden of stigma is heavy, and sometimes it grips us in painful positions. Whether you're feeling exhausted, sick of yourself, or just don't know quite how to relate to other people, therapy with me can help.
If you think I'm the right person for you (or your relationship, or your teen), I'd love to hear from you and schedule an introductory consultation.
Sometimes amazing things can grow under pressure. Living with stigma - related to a mind that works differently, a body that's unruly or "too much," or a sexuality that doesn't fit behind a white picket fence - asks us to be creative and fierce. The wisdom that can grow here is astounding. But the burden of stigma is heavy, and sometimes it grips us in painful positions. Whether you're feeling exhausted, sick of yourself, or just don't know quite how to relate to other people, therapy with me can help.
(510) 328-4259 View (510) 328-4259
Photo of Dr. Alex Townsend Lotz-Nigh, Psychological Associate in El Sobrante, CA
Dr. Alex Townsend Lotz-Nigh
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you or your middle school/high school age child needing the support of a gender specialist? Or are you an adult needing a LGBTQ+ affirming transgender/nonbinary therapist to support you in building greater resiliency and mental health? Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Townsend (he/him or they/them). I bring research, clinical, and lived experience to my work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines tailored interventions, a warm interpersonal style, and fostering a safe and supportive environment to support you or your teen to reach greater authenticity and actualization.
Are you or your middle school/high school age child needing the support of a gender specialist? Or are you an adult needing a LGBTQ+ affirming transgender/nonbinary therapist to support you in building greater resiliency and mental health? Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Townsend (he/him or they/them). I bring research, clinical, and lived experience to my work with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines tailored interventions, a warm interpersonal style, and fostering a safe and supportive environment to support you or your teen to reach greater authenticity and actualization.
(341) 444-2080 View (341) 444-2080
Photo of Kathleen Lellis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in El Sobrante, CA
Kathleen Lellis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pinole, CA 94564
I know how painful it can be as a teen, as a former teen and the mom of 2 former teen girls.
Kathy is a former teacher & mother of 3 adult children. She has volunteered with animal rescue. She has her Masters in Counseling Psychology from JFK University. She is focused on being a therapist for women, but also for those who have experienced trauma. She is certified in EMDR. She will be taking courses to do advanced EMDR and using EMDR for children.
I know how painful it can be as a teen, as a former teen and the mom of 2 former teen girls.
Kathy is a former teacher & mother of 3 adult children. She has volunteered with animal rescue. She has her Masters in Counseling Psychology from JFK University. She is focused on being a therapist for women, but also for those who have experienced trauma. She is certified in EMDR. She will be taking courses to do advanced EMDR and using EMDR for children.
(925) 208-0618 View (925) 208-0618
Photo of Mario Victor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Mario Victor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94801
Hello, my name is Mario W. Victor, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Offering a holistic approach in supporting clients using skills developed in 20 years as a therapist. I focus on assisting clients of any age in learning the best ways for them to cope with life’s challenges. I have expertise in working with the adolescent population, as well as the adult population. I offer consultations for parents with concerns about their child(ren). I have significant experience assisting individuals with stress/anxiety, depression, and helping them to develop coping skills.
Hello, my name is Mario W. Victor, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Offering a holistic approach in supporting clients using skills developed in 20 years as a therapist. I focus on assisting clients of any age in learning the best ways for them to cope with life’s challenges. I have expertise in working with the adolescent population, as well as the adult population. I offer consultations for parents with concerns about their child(ren). I have significant experience assisting individuals with stress/anxiety, depression, and helping them to develop coping skills.
(323) 716-1796 View (323) 716-1796
Photo of Megan Parker, Psychologist in El Sobrante, CA
Megan Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As our world re-opens, many people are experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress due to recent social isolation and the unpredictability of the future. It can be a highly stressful time for people re-entering the world and for parents and teens. I provide individual adult therapy, teen/young adult therapy, and parent coaching. I am knowledgeable with non-traditional family structures (single parent, multiple caregiver, polyamorous, & LGBT families), transgender adolescent/child issues, anxiety, and neurodiversity . I’ve also begun working with the emotional effects of long Covid and chronic fatigue.
As our world re-opens, many people are experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress due to recent social isolation and the unpredictability of the future. It can be a highly stressful time for people re-entering the world and for parents and teens. I provide individual adult therapy, teen/young adult therapy, and parent coaching. I am knowledgeable with non-traditional family structures (single parent, multiple caregiver, polyamorous, & LGBT families), transgender adolescent/child issues, anxiety, and neurodiversity . I’ve also begun working with the emotional effects of long Covid and chronic fatigue.
(415) 347-8868 View (415) 347-8868
Photo of Lindsay Focht, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Lindsay Focht
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
In working therapeutically with teens, I focus on providing a warm environment to build trust in the therapist-client relationship, for your teen to feel safe to talk about the things that are troubling them and impacting their mood, behaviors and relationships.
Through therapy with your child, I will work in building resiliency, learning new coping skills, emotional regulation, and providing a safe space to process memories and current life experiences and traumas. Unlike adults who tend more to communicate verbally or from a logical perspective, children use creativity and imaginative play to express their inner thoughts and feelings, it is often the main way children relate and learn about themselves and their world. Through play therapy, I respond to your child with care, attunement, and skillfulness in helping them understand difficult emotions and make sense of confusing experiences.
In working therapeutically with teens, I focus on providing a warm environment to build trust in the therapist-client relationship, for your teen to feel safe to talk about the things that are troubling them and impacting their mood, behaviors and relationships.
Through therapy with your child, I will work in building resiliency, learning new coping skills, emotional regulation, and providing a safe space to process memories and current life experiences and traumas. Unlike adults who tend more to communicate verbally or from a logical perspective, children use creativity and imaginative play to express their inner thoughts and feelings, it is often the main way children relate and learn about themselves and their world. Through play therapy, I respond to your child with care, attunement, and skillfulness in helping them understand difficult emotions and make sense of confusing experiences.
(341) 222-3552 View (341) 222-3552
Photo of Roxanne Fuller, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Roxanne Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CMT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Home visits are available, if you live in Alameda. I provide a safe haven for you, your teen, child or family, to explore stress, relationship issues, and past traumas that are getting in the way of you experiencing a fulfilling life. My unique and gentle techniques enable you to challenge patterns and behaviors that are limiting joy, satisfaction, and the ability to be calm.. We work at your pace, developing strategies, which will empower you to reach your goals. Together we create a safe environment, where you feel free to shift and change on all levels of being: psychological, emotional, spiritual, physical, and energetic.
Home visits are available, if you live in Alameda. I provide a safe haven for you, your teen, child or family, to explore stress, relationship issues, and past traumas that are getting in the way of you experiencing a fulfilling life. My unique and gentle techniques enable you to challenge patterns and behaviors that are limiting joy, satisfaction, and the ability to be calm.. We work at your pace, developing strategies, which will empower you to reach your goals. Together we create a safe environment, where you feel free to shift and change on all levels of being: psychological, emotional, spiritual, physical, and energetic.
(510) 491-9851 View (510) 491-9851
Photo of Brooke Bendix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Brooke Bendix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy! As a parent you want to ensure your 'GenZ'er has the emotional support they need to thrive in life. Imagine your child or teen with an improved sense of self-awareness and confidence in themselves. I provide a safe space to explore and manage their emotions and thoughts so they can develop a better sense of self. Our mission at Therapyology is to empower the next generation to lead a more valued life! It takes a village, am I right? I practice with a team approach working together with parents/doctors/teachers/school counselors to ensure each individual and family receives the best care.
Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy! As a parent you want to ensure your 'GenZ'er has the emotional support they need to thrive in life. Imagine your child or teen with an improved sense of self-awareness and confidence in themselves. I provide a safe space to explore and manage their emotions and thoughts so they can develop a better sense of self. Our mission at Therapyology is to empower the next generation to lead a more valued life! It takes a village, am I right? I practice with a team approach working together with parents/doctors/teachers/school counselors to ensure each individual and family receives the best care.
(248) 733-4899 x2 View (248) 733-4899 x2
Photo of Tim Tisdell, Psychologist in El Sobrante, CA
Tim Tisdell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
My particular areas of focus include: individual child, adolescent and adult therapy, adoption, and working with LGBTQQIA2S youth, adults, and families.
I am well trained as a licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience providing individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I strive to create a genuine relationship with my clients to allow for collaborative exploration of the areas in their lives that interfere with personal fulfillment. My approach also involves listening actively, building trust, being curious, providing empathy, and making direct comments to help my clients develop greater awareness about themselves and the patterns in their lives that cause emotional distress or relationship difficulties. This allows my clients to grow and to live more meaningful lives.
My particular areas of focus include: individual child, adolescent and adult therapy, adoption, and working with LGBTQQIA2S youth, adults, and families.
I am well trained as a licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience providing individual therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I strive to create a genuine relationship with my clients to allow for collaborative exploration of the areas in their lives that interfere with personal fulfillment. My approach also involves listening actively, building trust, being curious, providing empathy, and making direct comments to help my clients develop greater awareness about themselves and the patterns in their lives that cause emotional distress or relationship difficulties. This allows my clients to grow and to live more meaningful lives.
(510) 358-4819 View (510) 358-4819
Photo of Debra Milinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Debra Milinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
Specializing in individual, couple, family communication; intimacy, infidelity, sexuality; LGBTQIA, school, workplace relationship concerns; child/teen challenges; Mother-Daughter conflicts.
Every journey.. your first thought to call a therapist when you need to talk to someone, begins with a single step. When anxiety, depression, stress, personal, family, work relationship problems lead you to reach out, I will listen and help you find the best way through. Experienced licensed psychotherapist, 40+ years in general psychotherapy practice, I provide a safe place to talk, explore, resolve, heal what is challenging or troubling. I bring compassion, perceptiveness combined with patience, curiosity and many years of knowledge and skill to our collaboration to help you find effective solutions and make better life choices.
Specializing in individual, couple, family communication; intimacy, infidelity, sexuality; LGBTQIA, school, workplace relationship concerns; child/teen challenges; Mother-Daughter conflicts.
Every journey.. your first thought to call a therapist when you need to talk to someone, begins with a single step. When anxiety, depression, stress, personal, family, work relationship problems lead you to reach out, I will listen and help you find the best way through. Experienced licensed psychotherapist, 40+ years in general psychotherapy practice, I provide a safe place to talk, explore, resolve, heal what is challenging or troubling. I bring compassion, perceptiveness combined with patience, curiosity and many years of knowledge and skill to our collaboration to help you find effective solutions and make better life choices.
(510) 761-5931 View (510) 761-5931
Photo of Michael Torres, Psychologist in El Sobrante, CA
Michael Torres
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
I look forward to addressing your individual needs. I specialize in treating adolescent issues of all types with a specific focus on depression and mood disorders. I also offer services for people suffering from addiction, in all its forms. I work with adolescence, adults and couples, and of course with the entire family when indicated. I am considered a technical eclectic, which means I use whatever theoretical approach I feel will work best for your situation. We will also draw from film, literature, culture and spirituality in our sessions so that we can make use of your unique personal interests.
I look forward to addressing your individual needs. I specialize in treating adolescent issues of all types with a specific focus on depression and mood disorders. I also offer services for people suffering from addiction, in all its forms. I work with adolescence, adults and couples, and of course with the entire family when indicated. I am considered a technical eclectic, which means I use whatever theoretical approach I feel will work best for your situation. We will also draw from film, literature, culture and spirituality in our sessions so that we can make use of your unique personal interests.
(510) 768-7309 View (510) 768-7309
Photo of Jessica Lipkind, Psychologist in El Sobrante, CA
Jessica Lipkind
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I believe the key to effective assessment is the collaboration between the psychologist, parents, and the child or adolescent.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychological testing with children and adolescents. I have been practicing in this area for over a decade and have trained with experts in child assessment. My evaluations assess the presence of attention challenges, learning struggles, and emotional difficulties. I conduct thorough, comprehensive assessments informed by the Therapeutic/Collaborative Assessment model. In this model, parents and children are team members in the process and we work together to answer the referral questions. At the completion of the process, adolescents receive a feedback letter explaining the testing findings in accessible language and children receive an individualized picture book.
I believe the key to effective assessment is the collaboration between the psychologist, parents, and the child or adolescent.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychological testing with children and adolescents. I have been practicing in this area for over a decade and have trained with experts in child assessment. My evaluations assess the presence of attention challenges, learning struggles, and emotional difficulties. I conduct thorough, comprehensive assessments informed by the Therapeutic/Collaborative Assessment model. In this model, parents and children are team members in the process and we work together to answer the referral questions. At the completion of the process, adolescents receive a feedback letter explaining the testing findings in accessible language and children receive an individualized picture book.
(510) 858-2324 View (510) 858-2324
Photo of Sara Willott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Sara Willott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94706
Are you thinking about breaking a pattern that no longer serves you? Often feel like an outsider? Wanting to understand threads between past, present experiences, and possibilities ahead? Utilizing a variety of approaches, I can offer perspective and help you feel understood in order to create change in your life. I provide an affirming space for a lot of people who have had previously unsatisfactory experiences in therapy including LGBTQIA folks. I have extensive training beyond just getting licensed to practice therapy. Working with a clinically astute, sincere therapist can be life-changing.
Are you thinking about breaking a pattern that no longer serves you? Often feel like an outsider? Wanting to understand threads between past, present experiences, and possibilities ahead? Utilizing a variety of approaches, I can offer perspective and help you feel understood in order to create change in your life. I provide an affirming space for a lot of people who have had previously unsatisfactory experiences in therapy including LGBTQIA folks. I have extensive training beyond just getting licensed to practice therapy. Working with a clinically astute, sincere therapist can be life-changing.
(303) 943-9718 View (303) 943-9718
Photo of November Preston, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
November Preston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Institutional and systemic oppression, intergenerational trauma, and interpersonal harms can leave us feeling battered and broken. Isolation, community degradation, and cut off from the body and the natural world can leave us unsupported and under-resourced. In my work I seek to help people regulate their nervous systems, overcome the shame of having been harmed, and re/connect with a broader network of support. I'm passionate about accompanying people through their journey of identity development, whether that be gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, or whatever identity is emerging. I hope to help you step into your authentic self.
Institutional and systemic oppression, intergenerational trauma, and interpersonal harms can leave us feeling battered and broken. Isolation, community degradation, and cut off from the body and the natural world can leave us unsupported and under-resourced. In my work I seek to help people regulate their nervous systems, overcome the shame of having been harmed, and re/connect with a broader network of support. I'm passionate about accompanying people through their journey of identity development, whether that be gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, or whatever identity is emerging. I hope to help you step into your authentic self.
(510) 953-4727 View (510) 953-4727
Photo of Kay Guyer, Counselor in El Sobrante, CA
Kay Guyer
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, CA 94804
I am Kay Guyer, and I’m a queer and genderqueer liberation-focused art therapist. I provide art therapy in a beautiful art studio in the bay area and online. I specialize in working with queer and trans teens and adults who want to increase their sense of rootedness and agency in order to live vibrantly.
I am Kay Guyer, and I’m a queer and genderqueer liberation-focused art therapist. I provide art therapy in a beautiful art studio in the bay area and online. I specialize in working with queer and trans teens and adults who want to increase their sense of rootedness and agency in order to live vibrantly.
(415) 532-8762 View (415) 532-8762
Photo of Bren Benoit, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in El Sobrante, CA
Bren Benoit
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Pablo, CA 94806  (Online Only)
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
It is a radical act to pursue health, liberation, and self-acceptance in a world that too often seeks to dehumanize and control us. My intention is for therapy to be a refuge from that pressure and trauma, where you can explore who you want to be and how you want to live your life. Everyone has unique needs, strengths, and values, so my therapeutic approach is always as collaborative and egalitarian as possible. As a member of the transgender community, I am particularly experienced in issues relating to LGBTQ+ identity, relationships, and discrimination.
(341) 895-5783 View (341) 895-5783
Photo of Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in El Sobrante, CA
Celine Williams Thea Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
You have the power to harness your unique experiences and strengths to truly thrive, and I can show you how. Hi, my name is Celine, and I will support your in-depth self learning to embrace the joy of your individuality. Taking a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach, I will meet you in your stage of healing to empower you to integrate and understand your formative life experiences. If you feel that your lifestyle or mental health is not matching who you would like to become, I can guide you there. Together, we will make a plan to help you imagine and achieve your most Authentic Self and live a fulfilling life.
(925) 722-5853 View (925) 722-5853
Photo of Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in El Sobrante, CA
Grateful Heart Holistic Therapy Center
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94703
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
Therapy provides such a rich opportunity for growth and learning, helping persons to recover from the aftermaths of trauma, abuse and loss, meet the hardships of their lives and thrive. In times like this, with so much anxiety about our collective welfare, it can be an invaluable lifeline. In response to the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we are now offering teletherapy (therapy by phone and online by video) for all our clients, whether new or established. Also called telehealth or telebehavioral health, teletherapy can provide vital care and support to individuals, couples and families.
(510) 858-0916 View (510) 858-0916
Photo of Caitlin Finnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Sobrante, CA
Caitlin Finnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
(415) 630-6595 View (415) 630-6595

See more therapy options for El Sobrante

Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.