Let's talk logistics.

Absolutely. These are your sessions, and I want you to be comfortable. Coffee, snacks, lunch — have at it. Especially if we're meeting virtually and you're in the comfort of your own home.For in-person sessions, I just ask that you avoid bringing anything particularly messy. Nobody wants spaghetti sauce on the couch.

Of course. Before, during, whenever nature calls. You don't need to sit there uncomfortable for 50 minutes. If we're meeting virtually, though, please leave me behind. I promise I'll still be here when you get back.

Then you cry. You don't need to apologize, explain yourself, or try to stop.And if you don't cry? That's fine too. There's no emotional performance requirement here.

Telling me you've had thoughts of suicide does not automatically mean I'm going to call 911 or have you sent to the hospital.Suicidal thoughts can look very different from person to person. If you tell me you're experiencing them, my first response is going to be to understand what's happening — how often the thoughts are occurring, how intense they are, whether you have any intention or plan to act on them, what is helping keep you safe, and what support you may need.From there, we'll work together to determine the safest and most appropriate next steps.There are circumstances where I may need to take additional action if I believe there is an imminent risk of serious harm. I'll explain the limits of confidentiality before we begin therapy, and whenever possible, I want decisions about your safety to be something we navigate together rather than something that happens without you.I want you to be able to tell me when things are bad — not feel like you have to hide it because you're afraid of what I'll do.

Please do, if that's how you naturally express yourself. You don't need to censor your language or worry about offending me.

Then we'll figure it out together.You don't need to arrive with a carefully prepared agenda. Sometimes the most interesting conversations start with absolutely no idea where they're going.

For your privacy, I won't approach you or acknowledge that we know each other first.But if you recognize me and want to say hello, you're absolutely welcome to. I'll happily say hi. Just know I won't disclose our therapeutic relationship to anyone around us.

You can ask. I won't necessarily answer everything, but I'm not opposed to sharing things about myself when it's appropriate and useful.I'm a human being, not a mysterious voice behind a clipboard.

Please do. Take your shoes off, kick your feet up, curl up on the couch, or bring a blanket if you'd like. Our best work happens when we're comfortable, and I have absolutely no interest in making you sit like you're at a job interview.

Absolutely. There's no dress code here. Whether you're joining virtually from your couch or coming into the office, wear whatever you're comfortable in. Pajamas, sweatpants, slippers — I'm not judging.

Of course! Some people find it easier to think, process, and talk when their hands are occupied. Bring your knitting, sketchbook, fidget toys, or whatever helps you stay comfortable and engaged.

Honestly, I'll probably ask to see them.If your cat walks across the keyboard or your dog decides it's time for attention, don't worry about it. Pets are part of life, and occasional interruptions are no big deal.

Please do. Sometimes a screenshot explains a situation better than ten minutes of trying to describe it.You can show me memes, TikToks, text conversations, or even pictures of the people you're talking about. It helps me put faces to names instead of inventing an entire cast of characters in my head.Just be mindful of other people's privacy when sharing personal messages or images.

Nope. This one's a firm boundary.For everyone's safety, virtual sessions need to take place somewhere you're stationary and able to give the conversation your attention. If you're joining from your car, that's absolutely fine — just make sure you're safely parked before we begin.If you're running late or unexpectedly on the road, let me know. We can figure out the next steps rather than trying to conduct therapy in traffic.

Nope. I ask that you attend sessions sober and not under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or other intoxicating substances.Therapy requires us to be mentally present and able to participate meaningfully. If you're intoxicated, we won't be able to proceed with the session.If substance use is something you're struggling with, though, that's an entirely different conversation — and one you're absolutely welcome to have with me. You don't need to hide it or pretend it isn't happening.