Your Path to Healing: How It Works at Maplewood Counseling
Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage, and we’re here to make the process as clear and supportive as possible. We understand that navigating the logistics can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with so much. This guide is designed to answer your questions and show you exactly what to expect on your journey with us.
Therapy That Meets You Where You Are
We offer flexible options to ensure you can access quality care in the way that works best for you. Your well-being is our priority, whether you meet with us in person or online.
- In-Person Counseling in Maplewood, NJ: Our comfortable and private office in Maplewood provides a safe, welcoming space for you to meet with your therapist face-to-face. This is an ideal option if you prefer a traditional therapy setting.
- Statewide Telehealth Services: From the comfort and privacy of your own home, you can connect with our expert therapists through secure video sessions. Our telehealth services are available to anyone residing in New Jersey, offering convenience without compromising the quality of your care.
Our Four-Step Process to Begin
We’ve designed our intake process to be simple, compassionate, and centered around your needs. Our goal is to connect you with the right therapist—someone who truly understands your situation and can help you move forward.
- Reach Out: It all starts with a simple phone call or by filling out our secure contact form. You’ll connect with our warm and knowledgeable intake coordinator who is here to listen.
- A Conversation About You: During a free 15-minute consultation, our coordinator will ask gentle questions to understand what’s bringing you to therapy, what you hope to achieve, and any preferences you have for a therapist (e.g., specialty, gender, availability). This is also a space for you to ask about fees, insurance, and scheduling.
- Thoughtful Matching: Based on this conversation, we thoughtfully match you with the therapist on our team whose expertise and approach best align with your unique needs and goals. We consider everything from your specific challenges to your desire for evening or weekend appointments.
- Schedule Your First Session: Once you’re matched, we’ll help you schedule your first appointment at a time that works for you. You’ll receive a confirmation with all the details you need to feel prepared.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Your first session is a time for connection and exploration. It’s a dedicated space for you to share your story in a confidential, non-judgmental environment. Here’s what it typically involves:
- Building Rapport: Your therapist will focus on getting to know you as a person, not just the challenges you’re facing. This is the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship.
- Discussing Your Goals: You’ll talk about what brought you to counseling and what you hope to change. This conversation helps set the direction for your work together.
- Understanding Confidentiality: We’ll review our commitment to your privacy, explaining the bounds of confidentiality so you can feel secure sharing openly. For teen clients, we will discuss how we balance their privacy with parental involvement.
- Creating a Path Forward: By the end of the session, you and your therapist will have a beginning sense of a plan. You are always in control, and this plan will evolve as you do.
Navigating Life’s Transitions with You
Life and relationships are not static, and your therapy shouldn’t be either. We provide flexible care that adapts to your changing needs.
- From Individual to Couples Counseling: It’s common for individual work to reveal relationship dynamics you’d like to address with your partner. We make it easy to transition to couples counseling or to bring your partner in for a session, creating a safe space for connection.
- Adding Family Members to Telehealth: If you’re in family therapy or feel a family member’s involvement would be helpful, we can seamlessly add them to your secure telehealth sessions, no matter where they are in New Jersey.
- Adjusting Your Focus: As you grow, your goals may shift. Our therapists are skilled at adapting their approach to support you through new challenges and life stages.
How Soon Can I Start?
We know that when you’re ready for support, you don’t want to wait for weeks. We are committed to getting you started as quickly as possible.
Most new clients are able to schedule their first session within 2-5 business days of their initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of therapy do you offer?
We provide individual, couples, and family counseling—both in-person at our Maplewood office and online across New Jersey. Sessions are tailored to your needs, including help with communication, conflict, intimacy, and major life transitions.
How does your telehealth counseling work?
Telehealth sessions are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Simply click a private link sent prior to your session—no special software needed. Telehealth is available statewide and is just as effective as in-person care for most needs.
Is online therapy confidential and secure?
Absolutely. We use an encrypted video platform to protect your privacy. Your sessions remain confidential, and we take extra measures for high-profile clients and families to ensure discretion.
How do you match me with a therapist?
After your intake consultation, we carefully consider your preferences, needs, and schedule to match you with the therapist best equipped to support your goals. If your preferences change, we’re happy to adjust your match whenever needed.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a time to share your story and start building a supportive relationship with your therapist. You’ll discuss your goals, expectations, and set the direction for your therapy together.
Can I switch from individual to couples or family therapy?
Yes. If your needs change, it’s easy to transition from individual to joint sessions, or to add family members—even if they’re joining via telehealth from a different location in New Jersey.
How do you protect confidentiality for teens or high-profile clients?
We take confidentiality seriously for all clients. For teens, we balance their privacy with family involvement thoughtfully. For high-profile individuals, extra safeguards can be put in place upon request to maintain privacy and discretion.
What are your session fees and do you accept insurance?
Session fees range based on service and therapist. We are out-of-network insurance providers, and we’ll guide you through reimbursement steps. Sliding scale slots are available for clients facing financial hardship.
How soon can I start therapy?
Most clients are matched and scheduled for their first session within 3-5 business days after the initial intake consultation.
What if I have more questions?
We’re here to help. Please contact our intake coordinator to discuss your unique situation, get answers, and find the right next step.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you deserve.
Talk with our intake coordinator about fit, fees, and scheduling. Your journey to feeling better can start today.
Helpful Resources
- Couples Therapy: Strengthen your relationship with expert guidance.
- Individual Therapy: Personalized support for managing life’s challenges.
- Family Therapy: Build stronger family connections with professional support.
- Grief Counseling: Support for processing loss and navigating grief.
- New Client Hub: See our new client hub to set up your first session.