At Atlanta Wellness Collective, we exist to make counseling and wellness approachable and accessible. Therapy and counseling used to be (and sometimes still is!) very stigmatized, but we’re here to remind you that there is no shame in asking for help. It takes strength and bravery to work on yourself and seek healing and growth.

Counseling may be the healthiest step that you take for yourself. We’re here to make finding a counselor/therapist simple.

First Things First

It’s important that you feel comfortable with your counselor or therapist. The therapeutic relationship is arguably the most important part of the therapeutic process. Therefore, does the counselor’s online bio feel like a good match for you and your situation? Does this counselor specialize in working with your specific needs? Do they understand your lifestyle, and can they relate to you? A few questions to ask yourself before choosing a counselor:

Do you want to work with someone younger or older than you, or around your same life stage?

Does the counselor share specialities related to your goals and needs? i.e. anxiety, self-esteem, or blended family issues

Do you want to meet with a male or female counselor?

Do you prefer to work with a Christian counselor?

Do you prefer to meet virtually, in person, or both?

Your questions and preferences matter!

It may take 2-3 sessions, but the goal is to feel comfortable sharing.

A first counseling appointment is a bit like an interview, and you may not want to stick with the very first counselor you meet. During an initial appointment, it’s completely appropriate to ask your counselor questions about the things that matter most to you. Be sure to find someone who you feel comfortable opening up with and sharing with. This may take a few sessions. We recommend giving it 2-3 sessions to get a good feel. If you meet with a counselor and they don’t feel like the best fit, don’t be afraid to ask them for other referrals.

ON THE BLOG: Getting the Most Out of Your First Appointment >
ON THE BLOG: What to Expect During a Therapy Session >

For Parents

Counseling for children and adolescents is very different than counseling for adults. Not all counselors have the experience needed to work with minors. Be sure that you seek out a counselor who specializes in child and adolescent counseling. Most of the time counselors who work with children, adolescents, and families have additional training or education to do so.

At Atlanta Wellness Collective, we require an initial parent appointment prior to meeting with your child. Not all counselors require this; however, we believe it’s important for you to meet with and feel comfortable with the counselor who will be meeting with your child. During an initial parent appointment, we go over your initial paperwork and discuss your situation in more detail. We prioritize meeting with you for regular parent check-ins so that you aren’t guessing about your child’s treatment process.

ON THE BLOG: Therapy for My Child: What to Expect >

It’s a-okay to feel nervous. Don’t give up!

You’d be surprised by the number of clients who express during a first appointment, “I’m so nervous to be here!” Feeling nervous is normal. Sharing hurts and opening up to an almost stranger should feel a little scary. If you meet with a counselor and it feels awkward or scary at first, don’t give up! You owe it to yourself to show up and begin your journey. The first step is to simply make that first appointment. Once your first appointment is over, you will know much more what to expect. Give it a second try. Then a third. You’re on your way!

If you’re looking for a counselor or therapist, we would love to help! We offer in-person and telehealth counseling, therapy, and coaching for clients of all backgrounds. Request an appointment online. If you’re unsure who at our offices would be the best fit to meet with, contact our office for a personalized referral.

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