October 7, 2022

What to expect at your first session:

Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, the first session can be daunting. Even though you are doing something good for yourself, it can feel awkward and uncomfortable at first. That’s OK, we’re here to help you.

Information Gathering

At the initial session, we have everything to learn about each other. It is often difficult to be open and vulnerable with someone you just met. It may help to know that we do not need to know your whole story from start to finish the first time we meet you. The main points to touch on initially will be the reasons you are seeking therapy (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma, stressful life experiences, relationship struggles, etc.), what symptoms you are experiencing (emotions, physical sensations, sleep disturbance, appetite changes, etc.), and what you feel you need from this therapeutic experience.

Building Rapport

The first session is also a great opportunity for you to ask questions of your therapist, such as what techniques they use, what kind of experience they have with your specific concerns, or anything else that will help you to know if they are the right fit for you. Finding a good fit in a therapist is very important. We want you to feel safe, comfortable, and confident with the person you are working with.

Goal Setting

Coming into your first session, it is helpful to have an idea of what your goals are, or what you hope to gain by coming to therapy. Goals don’t have to be complex, they can be as simple as “I want to feel better.” When thinking about your goals, it may help to consider this question: if a miracle occurred while you’re sleeping tonight, what things would you notice tomorrow that would indicate life had suddenly gotten better?

If you or someone you know are ready to start your therapeutic journey, please reach out to us t Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness. We are ready to help, guide and support you through this process.

Accepted Insurances

Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness (OTCW) is credentialed with multiple insurance companies. We also offer rates on a sliding scale for those who will be paying privately.

Accepted insurances include:

  • BCBS of Michigan
  • BCN
  • BCC
  • Meridian
  • Magellan
  • McLaren Health Plan
  • Medicare
  • Paramount
  • Priority Health
  • UBH Optum
  • Value Options
  • Private pay clients can range for $80-$140 per session

Job Opportunities

We’re Hiring for LLMSW’s!

Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness (OTCW) in Ann Arbor is hiring Limited License Master Social Workers (LLMSW). OTCW helps adults, adolescents, and families with various needs. We specialize in a behavioral therapy called CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics) and need additional professionals to meet the growing need. This is an opportunity to learn a specialty that can take your career further. We also have the expertise to address other mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and stressful life transitions. We are a growing practice that is flexible to meet your needs and wants to help you grow and specialize in the direction you choose. We’re seeking a LLMSW who is interested in learning CBIT with the flexibility of adding other desired areas of interest. No experience in CBIT is necessary to apply.

We are looking for someone who has the following:

  • LLMSW License
  • Some clinical experience
  • Interest in working with adolescents, adults, and families
  • Interest in learning CBIT
  • Willing to work part-time or full-time
What OTCW will offer:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Flexible schedule
  • Office space
  • EHR/Administrative Services (note system, email, call screening, TeleHealth services)
  • Client referrals
  • Credentialing services
  • Weekly (paid) supervision by LMSW Supervisor
  • CBIT Training
  • Billing services
  • Interest in helping you develop your own practice
If interested, please send your resume to info@oaktreemi.com

Additional Resources

Additional resources you can access

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to one of the following:

The 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The Ozone House, a 24-hour hotline for youth, at 734-662-2222
The 24-hour hotline at U of M Psychiatric Emergency Services at 734-936-5900
The Washtenaw County Community Mental Health crisis team at 734-544-3050

To connect with the Tourette’s Association, Michigan Chapter, please email: MichiganTouretteConnect@gmail.com

"Storms make oaks take deeper root."
-George Herbert