How to Prepare for a Free Consultation
A guide from Bridget Moore, LCSW. General information, not medical advice.
The Short Answer
I offer a free 15-minute consultation before the intake. You can use it to describe why you are considering therapy and ask about fit, fees and availability. You do not need records, a diagnosis or a rehearsed introduction to ask those questions. I suggest choosing the few details you most want clarified so the call can help you decide what to do next.
Choose a Recent Example
Think of a situation that captures what has been hard, such as replaying a work decision or withdrawing after feeling overwhelmed. You can describe it briefly instead of trying to explain your whole history. I can ask follow-up questions. The consultation is a place to discuss starting therapy, not a full intake or an assessment of every concern.
Ask About the Working Relationship
You can ask how I approach worry, life changes or the concern you bring. I use CBT, ACT, DBT skills, psychodynamic and person-centered therapy. Method names alone may not tell you much, so ask what a session might involve. I can explain how we set goals together and revisit them without promising a particular result.
Confirm Where You Would Meet
Tell me if you prefer my Shelton office or online sessions. Online, your physical location must be Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey or Rhode Island during each appointment. Mention school breaks, a move or a work location that changes. We can discuss those details before assuming that your mailing address determines where sessions can happen.
Bring the Calendar Questions
I meet on weekdays during the day, not evenings or weekends. Tell me about classes, work hours or parenting responsibilities that affect your openings. I offer 45-minute individual appointments weekly or every other week after a 60-minute intake. Availability needs a conversation, so do not assume a lunch-hour slot is open simply because it would fit your schedule.
I want you to leave the call with clearer practical details, not pressure to commit.
Bridget Moore, LCSWAsk About the Full Cost
Individual therapy is $175 for 45 minutes. The intake fee is confirmed during your free consultation. Ask me to clarify payment before scheduling. Superbills are available for possible out-of-network reimbursement, but your plan decides whether it pays. You can also ask about the 24-hour cancellation notice and the $100 charge for a missed session without notice.
Deciding After the Conversation
You can take time to consider what you heard instead of agreeing to an intake immediately. If the concerns, schedule or location do not fit my practice, I can point you toward other options. This guide is general information, not medical advice. When you feel ready, request the consultation through the contact form, by phone or by email.
Related Questions
Is the Consultation a Therapy Session?
I use those 15 minutes to discuss starting and answer practical questions. The clinical intake is a separate 60-minute appointment.
Can I Write Down My Questions?
I welcome a short list, especially if cost, scheduling or an upcoming move is the main thing you need to clarify.
More to Read
All Guides
Bring Your Questions About Working Together
My Anxiety and Stress page can give you a starting point for questions about my work. Request a free 15-minute consultation by phone or email, and tell me which practical details you want to discuss before an intake.
Free 15-Minute Consult