An intake appointment is an initial appointment to gather basic information about you and your background while you learn more about the services available to you. It is not considered therapy, but rather a meeting between you and the therapist or student clinician to create the most whole and accurate picture of you as possible. During the intake appointment, you will be asked to fill out paperwork and provide information about your background, mental health, and goals for therapy. The therapist or student clinician will ask you a series of questions to gather the necessary information needed to understand your needs and determine the best treatment path for you. The intake appointment is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have regarding treatment. It is important to arrive for your intake appointment about 10-15 minutes early so you have adequate time to read over important information and fill out some brief paperwork. The intake appointment is an essential step in receiving counseling, and it will give you a better feel for the counselor or therapist you’ll be meeting with.