Therapists for Veterans in Tennessee

Finding a therapist who truly understands the unique challenges faced by veterans and military families is crucial for effective mental health support. With 27 verified therapists in Tennessee who specialize in working with veterans and their families, you can filter by therapy type (CBT, DBT, EMDR) and focus on issues like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and trauma to find a provider equipped to support those with military backgrounds. Each therapist listed is Grow Therapy-verified, familiar with the complexities of veteran life, currently welcoming new clients, and has availability within the next 30 days.

Availability updated: 10/25/2025

Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 48 ratings

Norman Shaffer

LCSW, 11 years of experience

Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Addiction
Coping Skills
Greetings, My name is Norman Shaffer and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee. I have been practicing as a social worker for over a decade now. I enjoy working with adults who are actively seeking a positive change in their life. I like to partner with clients and guide them towards better outcomes and a healthier balance in life.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 25 ratings

Patricia Bishop

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Grief
Life Transitions
+1
Hello! I'm Patricia. Thank you for visiting my profile. Grief enters our lives uninvited and its impact can continue to effect us for years. It may have been the death of a loved one, either recent or long ago. It may have been a divorce or the break up of a romantic relationship. It may have been the loss of a treasured pet, or any of the more than forty other losses that a person can encounter in a lifetime. Regardless of the cause of your broken heart, you know that life is not as happy or fulfilling as you want it to be. Often, well-meaning people say to "be strong" or "just give it time" which can leave us feeling like we are doing something wrong or should feel differently. Sometimes, we simply tuck our feelings away, hoping that they will eventually disappear. In our sessions, we will uncover the misinformation and beliefs that keep us stuck and unhappy. Unresolved grief stems from the things we wish we'd said or done differently, better or more. You will learn how to discover and communicate those unsaid things, so that they no longer limit you or affect your capacity for happiness.
Virtual
Offers in-person in Knoxville, TN - Accepting clients in TN
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 30 ratings

Samantha Steel

LCSW, 8 years of experience

Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
First of all I’m a veteran and retired from the US Army. I have been a therapist for 8 years and have experience working with multiple modalities and almost all diagnoses at some point. I am also a Reiki and do holistic healing. I want to help others whether it’s building self confidence or dealing with trauma nothing is too small or too big to be treated.
Virtual
Offers in-person in Winchester, TN - Accepting clients in TN
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 9 ratings

Sherry McMillan

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+5
I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth, healing, and fulfillment, and therapy can be a powerful step toward reaching that potential. I work with women and men who are managing stress, anxiety, perfectionism, or significant life transitions such as parenthood, career shifts, or relationship changes. Many of my clients are striving to balance multiple roles while also wanting to prioritize their own happiness and well-being. In our work together, I may use different modalities such psychodynamic, cognitive, humanistic, and group therapy to meet each client’s unique needs. We may explore underlying patterns, identify and shift unhelpful thought processes, and build on existing strengths. My role is to support clients in gaining insight, developing effective coping tools, and creating healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and relating. Clients often leave therapy with a deeper sense of self, improved resilience, and the confidence to make meaningful changes. My mission is to empower both women and men to move beyond what holds them back and build lives of balance, purpose, and fulfillment.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Kelly Matthes

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
+3
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping individuals identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose. Since becoming licensed in 2004, I’ve worked with clients across a wide range of life stages and challenges, using a goal-oriented, strengths-based approach rooted in evidence-based practices. My clinical focus is on empowering clients to overcome barriers, build resilience, and make intentional changes that support long-term growth. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, managing stress, or feeling stuck, I provide a supportive and structured space where we can work collaboratively to identify what’s not working—and develop practical, sustainable strategies to help you thrive.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Myra Johnson

LCSW, 28 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+8
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in TN with a varied background of experience and knowledge. I love helping clients identify what is holding them back in their lives and work on meeting new challenges with comfort and healing. My goal is to make clients feel comfortable and safe while they share their thoughts and feelings. I am here to be supportive but not tell you have to run your life- that is YOUR decision. I sort through the options, the barriers and the coping strategies available.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 3 ratings

Jaime Brooks

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW) providing individual therapy to adults (18+) across Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky. My journey to becoming a therapist began with a deep desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. This passion led me to pursue a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology, giving me insight into both human behavior and the systems that shape our experiences. From there, I earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work, building a strong foundation to guide, support, and empower those I work with. My practice is grounded in a client-centered, collaborative, and trauma-informed philosophy. I view therapy as a partnership, with your voice and perspective at the center. I draw from approaches such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to meet your needs and support meaningful progress.
Virtual
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Tammy Diaz

LMFT, 26 years of experience

New to Grow

Open-minded
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Addiction
Family Therapy
+10
Over twenty-five years ago I moved to Knoxville, leaving my Midwestern background behind. While living in Knoxville, I earned my master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Johnson University. My professional journey has allowed me to work with a wide variety of people in numerous settings. I particularly like working with people facing addiction or compulsions, mood disorders, and challenges in relationships. Guided by a commitment to ensure that no pain is wasted, I find genuine fulfillment in learning from the experiences of others. This continual process has enriched my sense of compassion and empathy, making it profoundly rewarding to witness positive change in my clients’ lives.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 28 ratings

Holly M.

LPC/MHSP, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+6
I have worked in the mental and behavioral health field for 20 years. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia and South Carolina. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in Tennessee and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I believe that achieving & maintaining mental health is as important as maintaining one’s physical health. I will partner with you on your road to self-improvement, self-discovery, & personal empowerment. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to make the commitment to themselves to do the work necessary to implement change.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 101 ratings

Jodie Robison

LPC/MHSP, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Mood Disorders
Trauma and PTSD
As a therapist, I am rewarded by helping people realize their full potential. As part of that process, I take the time to develop a solid connection with my clients to ensure optimal understanding of their concerns and goals, and collaboratively develop a treatment plan that works for them. I am trained in several evidence-based therapies and utilize them to help my clients achieve their goals.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 16 ratings

Tiffany Fields

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Intelligent
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Beginning therapy is a deeply personal decision and often comes with a mix of curiosity, hope, and understandable hesitation. As a seasoned professional specializing in trauma-informed care, I recognize the profound impact that life experiences can have on someone’s over well-being. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based clinical modalities with a deep respect for each individual’s unique journey. I approach each client with the understanding that no two stories are the same and that therapy must be tailored to honor the individuality of your experiences.
Virtual
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Tammy Ricker

LMFT, 17 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Grief
Life Transitions
+8
As an American Family Therapist, I work from a systemic perspective, focusing on the entire family unit rather than just the individual. My goal is to help families uncover and understand deep-rooted patterns and issues that interfere with healthy communication and connection. Through this process, I support each member in developing more effective ways of relating, resolving conflict, and fostering emotional safety with the family system. I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and view my work through that lens. This means focusing on mindfulness, expanding tolerance for discomfort, increasing effectiveness in relationships and strengthening emotional regulation. When challenges arise in therapy, I often find that the root of the issue can be addressed through one of these core areas. For clients struggling with post-traumatic stress injuries-particularly common in military populations-I also incorporate Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help them reframe and work through trauma-related beliefs. My approach is structured, evidence-based, and tailored to the needs of each individual or family.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 62 ratings

Ceccily Bednash

LMFT, 10 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Career Counseling
+10
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered art therapist providing telehealth services to TN and CA residents. As a practicing visual artist for 22 years I understand the psychological, emotional, financial and lifestyle challenges that creatives face in a world that prioritizes capitalism over creativity. I will help you to use your unique gifts and talents in order to live your life in the fullest expression of yourself.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 20 ratings

Dr. Kay Echols

LMFT, 4 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+8
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Tennessee. I earned my Doctorate from Amridge University and have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families for nearly four years. I specialize in supporting people who are navigating depression, anxiety, and trauma, and I’m passionate about helping clients move toward a place where they can confidently pursue their life goals. Over time, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the importance of equipping individuals with the tools, strategies, and resources they need to grow and thrive. My approach is rooted in person-centered care—I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your unique experiences, and walking alongside you as you work toward emotional, mental, and physical wellness. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel supported, empowered, and ready to take meaningful steps forward.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 50 ratings

Ben Smith

LP, 12 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to get past symptoms of anxiety, depression or past trauma? It's common to experience mental health-related challenges in life and to get stuck at times. We're not born with a built-in understanding of how to be psychologically healthy, so sometimes it's a good idea to get a little guidance from an unbiased professional. My ideal client is motivated to understand themselves better and to make the necessary adjustments to improve their quality of life.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 11 ratings

Percy Ford

LPC/MHSP, 26 years of experience

Direct
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anger Management
Depression
+10
I earned a BS in Social Work from Tuskegee University in 1997 and graduated from Argosy University School of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences in 2007 with a MA in Professional Counseling. I am licensed by the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider and is a Nationally Certified Counselor. He has over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health and Social Work fields. I have also completed 24 hours of course study in criminal profiling through Forensic Solutions Inc. and formerly was an approved treatment provider for sex offenders through the Tennessee Sex Offender Treatment Board.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 39 ratings

Dr. Ruby Jackson

LPC/MHSP, 22 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+7
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor with over two decades of experience, I maintain a humble approach when encountering novel, unfamiliar, or unpredictable situations. This humility stems from the understanding that my purpose is to serve and share knowledge and expertise. My life mission is to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives and the community through advocacy and empowerment.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 115 ratings

Renesa Clemons

LCSW, 22 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2006. I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have been an LCSW for the past 10 years. I have experience in treating trauma, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Currently, I also work at the Memphis VA Hospital in the ER as a mental health assessor.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 34 ratings

Amy Kersten

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Open-minded

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Perinatal Mental Health
+6
Hi, I’m Amy. I live in Missouri with my husband, our sweet dog, and two very sassy cats who keep life lively. Being both a military spouse and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker has shaped who I am, both personally and professionally. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through life’s many transitions, challenges, and seasons of growth. My journey into social work began with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alaska, followed by a master’s from the University of Maine. For more than 20 years, I’ve been walking alongside people as they navigate anxiety, trauma, infertility, grief, and the everyday pressures of life. What I love most about this work is creating a safe, supportive space where people can feel heard, understood, and empowered to reconnect with themselves. At the heart of my approach is the belief that healing is possible—and that resilience can grow even in the most difficult circumstances. Whether we’re working through painful past experiences or exploring new ways to cope with stress, my goal is to help you find hope, balance, and a deeper sense of self. If you’d like to know more about me and the work I do, you can visit: https://kerstenlcsw.com/
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 1 ratings

Anna Bogart

LPC/MHSP, 12 years of experience

Open-minded
Warm

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
Hi, I'm Anna. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I believe therapy should feel like a deep breath--not another thing to brace yourself for. In my office, you can exhale. You don't have to perform or polish anything up. I offer a space that's calm, honest, and rooted in trust--where it's okay to be messy, uncertain, angry, shut down, or just plain exhausted. You have a story and I'm here to help you heal. When I'm not in session, you'll usually find me making jewelry, lost in a craft project, or hanging out with my two cats (who definitely run the house) or chilling in nature. If you're looking for a grounded, real therapist to walk with you through the hard stuff--I'd be honored to work with you.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 83 ratings

Kari Vincent

LPC/MHSP, 2 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Open-minded

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello and welcome! Are you seeking to heal from past wounds, enhance your relationship with yourself, or improve your connections with others? My work is deeply rooted in supporting clients through trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, and attachment styles, while also fostering healthy, fulfilling relationships. I draw on a variety of proven techniques—like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), attachment theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Gestalt therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Exposure Therapy, the Gottman Method, psycho-education, and Positive Psychology. This allows me to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and help you achieve your goals.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Yolmar Rodriguez-Chacon

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Life Transitions
+10
Hi! My name is Yolmar Rodriguez-Chacon and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I believe that during challenging times, we need someone who is on our side, who understands our situation and can help during dark times. I will serve as a guide, and walk by your side throughout your individual process, while you develop trustworthy insight and learn to understand yourself.
Virtual
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Frenchie Sanford

LCSW, 15 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+10
My name is Hiawatha, but I prefer to be called "Frenchie". I am a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a proud grandmother. I enjoy all sports, but my favorites are basketball and tennis. I also love to mentor young ladies and be a positive role model for them. I have always been a great listener and love to try and help problem-solve. I believe in the power of positive thinking, and I also believe in being as supportive as I can be. I strongly encourage self-care as I definitely try to take time to re-energize myself often.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 17 ratings

Emilio Yonta

LCSW, 44 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Addiction
Anxiety
+10
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in FL, AL, TN, and SC, and I am a Christian Counselor who holds to a Biblical world view and this foundation forms the framework to my clinical training and orientation. I received my MSW degree from Barry University in Miami Shores, Miami, FL. and I have over 40 years of practice experience. I have extensive experience in community and emergency mental health, crisis intervention. I was in private practice for 21 years serving individuals, couples, families, community agencies and municipalities. While in private practice I also became a life coach and personal fitness trainer developing a unique approach to behavior and life style change. I combined my clinical experience with life coaching and personal fitness training and formed a program called Your Life in Focus. This paradigm became an extremely effective approach to help individuals make significant and sustained life-style changes. My experience, and creative approaches can have important and meaningful impact on your life.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 4 ratings

Esther Dubique

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Direct
Intelligent
Solution oriented

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+8
It's inspiring to see people thrive, especially when life presents challenges. Navigating tough times can feel overwhelming, and with the current global unrest, it's natural to question your path and place in the world. Coping with these pressures, whether they stem from emotional distress, anxiety, employment or relationship issues, or even trauma, is incredibly difficult. I'm here to help. Let's work together to transform your life experiences into a source of purpose and strength.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 31 ratings

Melanie Williams

LCSW, 25 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Trauma and PTSD
+8
My life experiences drew me to become a therapist and gave me a strong desire to help others on their paths. I have worked in a variety of settings, from schools, jails, and hospitals to private practice. I have specialized training in TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, autism, and women's issues, including perinatal, postpartum, and perimenopausal/menopausal issues. I look forward to helping you on this journey together!
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Rated 4.6 stars out of 5, 39 ratings

Greg Kirkham

LCSW, 22 years of experience

Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Military/Veterans
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Hi im Greg Kirkham! Im a licensed therapist, practicing for over 21 years. I specialize in treating trauma. Now, you may be saying “but I don’t have trauma!” Trauma comes in all shapes and sizes and is often not recognized as such, but almost always has a significant impact on someone’s overall mental, physical and emotional health. Trauma also presents in many different forms, including struggles with depression, anxiety and anger management. Over my career I have worked with an array of populations, including children/families, juvenile sex offenders, and even convicts. Currently, I serve those who served us as a therapist with the VA in middle TN. Over the past seven years, I’ve seen evidence-based treatments work wonders with PTSD and trauma in our veterans. With GrowTherapy, I’m now able to provide these and other treatments to YOU! Whether you’re not real sure or highly motivated to get help, I’d love to discuss options and see if we’re a good fit! Thanks for reading and congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life!
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Tennessee rather than a city like Nashville?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Tennessee from Memphis to Knoxville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Tennessee.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on Military/Veterans?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need. For example, your selected specialty, Military/Veterans, is filtering therapists in Tennessee that work with patients with similar concerns.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.