Getting Ready for Your Initial Phone Consultation

It can be intimidating talking to a stranger on the phone for the first time- even more so when they are going to be asking you personal questions. So let’s ease some of that apprehension and help you get to know what to expect. If you’re feeling nervous, that’s completely normal. This post is here to help!

At Unbound Therapy your first contact is a free initial phone consultation. This first conversation is a gentle, low-pressure way to get to know each other a little bit- enough to see if we both think we’re a good fit to work together and help you get unstuck.

What will the Phone Consultation Include?

A phone consultation is a brief, 10–15 minute call that gives us a chance to connect before scheduling your first full session.

I’ll ask you a few questions such as “what led you to reach out for therapy”, and “what are some of the problems you want help with”. I’ll probably ask you a few more clarifying questions or for more details.

Next, I’ll tell you a bit about how (and if!) I think I can help.

I’ll then give you time to ask any questions you have.

After that, we’ll probably both have an idea about whether Unbound Therapy feels like the right place for you- and we can talk about it. From there, we can move on to talking about scheduling.

Unlike a full therapy session, this call is not meant as a deep-dive into your history or to start figuring things out. It's meant to map out the area's therapy will likely explore. Think of it as going broad instead of deep.

You Don’t Have to Prepare For the Call – But You Can if You Want to

There isn’t much to do in preparation for the initial phone call. Nevertheless, if feeling more prepared will help you feel more comfortable- here some things you can do to get ready.

1. Find a Quiet, Private Space

Choose a place where you won’t be interrupted and can speak freely. It’s important that you feel safe from any intrusion or distraction during our call. Stepping outside is also an option. And headphones can be a great help!

2. Reflect on Why You’re Seeking Therapy

You don’t need to prepare a speech, and you certainly don’t need to convince me of anything—but take a moment to consider the following, so it will be easier to speak about:  

• What’s been feeling difficult lately?

• Has something happened or changed recently that led you to want therapy?

• Is this your first experience with therapy or seeking any kind of help?

• Is there a specific challenge—like anxiety, grief, loneliness, or feeling stuck—that you’re hoping to address?

Most importantly- You don’t need to have anything figured out in advance. You’re welcome to say, “I’m not sure what’s wrong, I just know something is wrong and I want help.” That’s perfectly okay, too!

3. Jot Down Any Questions

The phone consultation is a great time to ask the questions that will help you decide if Unbound Therapy is right for you. So maybe jot some of those questions down, such as:

• How often do sessions happen?

• What type of therapy do you use?

• What does therapy with you usually look like?

• Do you have experience working with [specific issue X]?

• What is your approach/ attitude/ understanding of issues relating to... [LGBTQIA+ / social justice and race / Kink/ Polyamory / anything else on your mind!]

• What’s your availability like throughout the week- I can only do [Y]

• How does payment work?

There’s no such thing as a bad question. Ask whatever you need and want to ensure this space feels right for you.

4. Be Yourself

There’s no need to impress or perform. The goal of our call is to get a feel for each other—authenticity is the best place to start, even if you are genuinely and authentically confused and all over the place. Bring yourself as you are, and we’ll figure it out together.  

What Happens After the Call?

If we both feel like it’s a good fit, we can schedule your first session. If you’re unsure, I encourage you to take your time. Speak to other therapists. Shop around! You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your decision. If you feel another therapist might better meet your needs, I’m happy you are advocating for yourself and prioritizing your comfort and care!

If I feel I can’t help you at this time, I’ll be sure to provide referrals, resources, and further ideas on how to support you.

You’re Not Alone—This Is Just the Beginning

Reaching out for help is brave. It can feel intimidating to make the first move, but you don’t have to have everything figured out. The most important thing is that you’re showing up—and that’s enough.

At Unbound Therapy, I offer compassionate, integrative therapy for individuals who feel trapped by old patterns, intense negative feeling, and circumstances. My practice supports adults of all ages who are ready to break free and unbind themselves. So- let’s talk!