Starting individual therapy in Atlanta is a positive step toward your well-being, involving three main steps: booking a session, completing a few simple documents, and discussing your goals with a licensed therapist in a confidential setting. Whether you choose in-person or online, this guide is designed to provide clarity and support every step of the way.
We’ll walk you through what to expect, from your very first point of contact to understanding all your options across Georgia. Our goal is to make the process feel less daunting and more empowering.
Is Therapy Right for Me?
Sometimes the biggest question isn’t “how do I find a therapist?” but “should I even see one?” You might be wondering if your problems are “big enough” for therapy, or if it’s the right solution for what you’re facing.
The truth is, therapy is for anyone who wants to improve their life, manage difficult feelings, or simply have a neutral, confidential space to explore their thoughts. There’s no minimum threshold of suffering you have to reach. People seek therapy for a wide range of reasons, including:
- Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed.
- Coping with life transitions like a new job, a breakup, or a move.
- Navigating relationship challenges with partners, family, or friends.
- Processing past traumas or difficult life events.
- Gaining a better understanding of themselves and their emotions.
At FAVA Counseling, our licensed, relationship-focused practitioners are committed to creating an empathetic space where you can feel seen and heard, no matter what you’re bringing to the table. For instance, if you’re dealing with feelings of anxiousness, you can explore our specialized anxiety therapy services. You can also find more information about the benefits of psychotherapy from the American Psychological Association.
How to Start Therapy (in Atlanta & Online Across GA)
Once you’ve decided that you’re ready to take the first step, you might feel a bit lost about the logistics. The process of how to start therapy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple roadmap to guide you.
Step 1: Booking Your First Session
The initial point of contact is usually the first big hurdle. FAVA Counseling makes it easy with multiple options to reach out. You can call, email, or fill out a simple contact form, but one of the easiest ways is to text us at: (404) 257-6474
The main goal of this initial step is to gather some basic information and help match you with the right therapist. You can share what’s on your mind and ask any initial questions you might have. You’ll be asked about your availability and preferences (e.g., in-person vs. online).
Step 2: Documents Basics
Before your first meeting, you’ll receive an email with some digital paperwork to complete. This usually includes:
- Informed Consent: Explains the therapeutic process, confidentiality policies, and your rights as a client.
- Intake Forms: Asks for basic personal information, your reasons for seeking therapy, and relevant background details.
Completing this paperwork ahead of time helps you get the most out of your first session. To learn more about the full range of options, you can view all our services.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Your first therapy session is an introduction—not a deep dive into every challenge you’ve ever faced. It’s a chance to get to know your therapist, and for them to get to know you.
Goals, Fit, and Next Steps
The primary purpose of this session is to establish a foundation for a successful therapeutic relationship. Your therapist will guide the conversation, but you’re in the driver’s seat. Here’s a brief checklist of what you can expect:
- Welcome and Introductions: The therapist will welcome you and briefly explain their approach, and important aspects of your documents and paperwork that you completed during intake.
- Your “Why”: You’ll be asked to share what brought you to therapy. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
- Goal Setting: You and your therapist will discuss what you hope to get out of therapy. Your goals can be broad (e.g., “to feel less anxious”) or specific (e.g., “to decrease the frequency of panic attacks”).
- Questions & Concerns: This is your opportunity to ask your therapist questions about their experience, their methods, or anything else on your mind. You may also find some answers on our FAQ page.
- Establishing a Plan: Based on your goals, you’ll discuss how frequently you’ll meet and what the next steps might look like.
- Setting Boundaries: You will review the confidentiality policies, which are designed to protect your privacy and create a safe space for you to open up.
- Scheduling the Next Session: If it feels like a good fit, you’ll schedule your next meeting.
The therapist’s job is to create a safe, non-judgmental space. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you walk in the door. To learn more about our philosophy, you can read about our team and approach.
Online Session Setup & Privacy
Online therapy has made professional care more accessible than ever, especially across the state of Georgia. If you opt for online counseling, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth, private experience.
Your therapist will send you a secure, private link to a video conferencing platform. For your session, you’ll want to find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. A private room in your home, a parked car, or even an office after hours can all work well.
It’s important to know that online sessions through FAVA Counseling use a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform to protect your privacy. This commitment to security means you can feel as safe and confidential as you would in an in-person office.
Online vs. In-Person: Which Is Best for You?
One of the most common questions we hear is whether to choose online or in-person sessions. The right choice for you depends on your personal preferences and circumstances.
Online Therapy (for residents across Georgia):
- Convenience: Eliminate travel time and traffic. It’s perfect for busy professionals, parents, or those with mobility challenges.
- Accessibility: Allows you to connect with a FAVA Counseling therapist from anywhere in Georgia. This is a major benefit for those who live outside the Atlanta metro area. You can also review these general guidelines on online therapy safety from the Mental Health America.
- Comfort: Some people feel more at ease in the familiar environment of their own home.
In-Person Therapy (in our Atlanta office):
- Human Connection: Some people prefer the face-to-face interaction that an in-person session provides.
- Separation: A dedicated office space can help you mentally transition into a therapeutic mindset and leave your worries behind when you leave.
- Fewer Distractions: Being in a professional setting can minimize interruptions from family, pets, or daily life.
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and safe. We offer both options because we believe in providing care that fits your life. If you’re struggling with which to choose, we can talk it through during your initial contact.
Costs, Insurance, and Scheduling
Understanding the financial side of therapy is a key part of the decision-making process. FAVA Counseling is committed to providing clarity on this topic from the very beginning.
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- Cost of Sessions: Each therapist sets their own rates based on their experience, specialized training, and credentials. Sessions range from $135-$200 for a standard 50-minute session.
- Insurance: As a self-pay practice, we do not work directly with insurance providers. However, if you would like to try and access your “Out of Network” benefits, your therapist can provide you with a form (called a Superbill) which you can submit to your insurance company to try and receive reimbursement. We have many clients who are able to get at least partial reimbursement for the cost of sessions this way.
- For more information on navigating mental health coverage, you can find a guide from SAMHSA.
- Sliding Scale: All of our therapists offer a limited number of sliding scale spots (reduced fee) when finances are an issue. Please discuss this with our team during the consultation call if you are in need of a lower fee for services.
- Scheduling: We offer appointments Monday – Friday as well as Evenings and Weekends. Each Therapist has their own schedule so reach out today and find the best fit for you!
We believe that high-quality mental health care should be accessible, and we’re here to help you navigate the process.
FAQs About Individual Counseling in Atlanta, GA
What is the difference between therapy and talking to a friend?
Therapy is a professional relationship with specific goals. While friends can offer support, a therapist is a trained expert who uses evidence-based techniques to help you understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They are a neutral party and the relationship is confidential, with strict boundaries to ensure your safety and progress.
How long does therapy take to work?
There’s no single answer, as it depends entirely on your unique goals and what you’re working on. Some people feel a sense of relief and clarity after just a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. Generally, we ask our clients to commit to attending weekly sessions for a minimum of 6-8 weeks. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that aligns with your needs.
How do I know if a therapist is a good fit for me?
A good fit is one of the most important factors for success. A good therapist-client relationship is built on trust, empathy, and open communication. You’ll know it’s a good fit if you feel comfortable, understood, and respected. It’s okay to interview a few therapists before committing.
What if I feel awkward or have nothing to say?
It’s completely normal to feel awkward or nervous, especially at first. Your therapist is there to guide the conversation. They’ll likely start with open-ended questions to help you feel comfortable. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to be in therapy. Just being present is a huge step.
Ready to Begin?
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. You’ve done the research, read about the process, and now you have a clearer picture of what to expect. At FAVA Counseling, we’re ready to meet you where you are and provide the support you need. If you’re ready to start your journey with individual therapy in Atlanta or online across Georgia, we are here to help.
4840 Roswell Rd., Suite C202, Atlanta, GA 30342