Cristian Tovar

The first counseling session is a chance for us to get to know each other and begin building a trusting relationship. We will discuss your concerns, review your intake paperwork, and identify your goals for therapy. We will also talk about recommendations for session frequency. This initial meeting helps us build rapport, determine whether we are a good fit, and create a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences.

The length of therapy varies based on your goals, concerns, and individual circumstances. Many clients begin noticing improvements within the first 6 weeks of consistent counseling. I typically recommend four weekly sessions to build momentum and assess progress. For children and adolescents, I encourage a family session with parents or caregivers to review progress and determine future treatment needs. Many clients experience significant improvement within 12–16 weeks.

It is common for children and teens to feel hesitant about opening up at first, especially in a virtual setting. Building trust takes time, and I work at their pace to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment. Through patience, rapport-building, and age-appropriate techniques, most young clients become more comfortable sharing over time. My goal is to help them feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the process.