Yes! Confidentiality is a top priority and whether your appointment is in-person or virtual, anything you share stays between you and Dr. Monroe. The only exceptions to this rule is when there is a threat of harm to others, someone is hurting you, you disclose intent to hurt yourself or if you give me permission to share information with a third party.

Most of the time, this is left up to you, the participant. If the participant is a minor, guardian/s will often join the intake appointment, but that is not required. Whatever provides the most comfort to the participant is the goal.

You are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel safe sharing. The goal of the intake appointment is to get an understanding of the participant's current challenges and what areas they would like to focus on regarding their emotional and mental health. Some general questions might be asked regarding family history, participant's experiences with any past counseling support, etc. However, do not feel pressured to share your full story during the intake appointment.

Intake appointments are the same length as regular support sessions - approximately 50 minutes in length. There are times when two or more sessions are needed to focus on the intake and that is not uncommon. Sessions are adapted to the participant's needs!

The most important tool in counseling is the therapeutic rapport between the participant and counselor. Not every counselor is a good fit for every participant. If the participant or Dr. Monroe believes that it would be better for the participant to seek support elsewhere, referral information will be provided to the participant/guardian and Dr. Monroe will do all she can to ensure the participant is set up with a counselor that fits the participant's needs.