There are often questions the first time you attend therapy with a new clinician...

First, let me introduce myself...

My name is Tina LeMarque-Denison. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Arizona. 

I offer a free 20-30 minute initial phone consultation so that potential clients can decide if we are a "good fit." We can use this consultation to discuss the issues you may want to work on. If you feel like you would prefer to work with someone else, or if I determine that you would benefit more from working with another clinician, I am happy to make referrals to other therapists.

During sessions my Hearing Assistance dog, Mikka is always in my office. She is a magnificent rescue dog from Los Angeles. She is highly intelligent, gentle, and intuitive, and thoroughly enjoys her days as a working canine. Kiku, the black Labrador girl, will greet you effusively at the door.

For an interesting article on creatures in the therapeutic setting:

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/12/20/the-pets-in-my-practice/?emc=eta1     

What happens first?

As in all professional offices, there are a number of documents that need to be filled out. I will email these to you. Allow yourself a relaxed 40-60 minutes to fill these out. You can either email them back to me or bring them to your first appointment, but make sure they are in my hands by the first session. We cannot begin until all of the paperwork is filled out.  

What to expect from the first session:

During your first session or two we will get to know each other. We will discuss the goals you would like to reach during the course of your therapy. Together we will formulate steps that will start you on your path. I will encourage you to try new approaches, activities, and ways of looking at things. The therapy that I do is very action and change oriented. I work best with people who really want to do something about their lives.

Unless we opt for extended sessions (75 minutes), your sessions will last 50 minutes. In order to achieve the best results, expect to come once a week for the first 3-4 months. After that, sessions can be adjusted to fit your needs and schedule.

Important technical details:

Payment is due at time of service. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.   

How can I get better results from therapy?

• Make a commitment to change, even if it does not seem possible
• Come weekly, or more frequently when in crisis
• Come even if you're afraid to come
• Talk about the things you do not want to talk about
• Formulate small achievable goals. Real and lasting change is built of a series of very small actions- and some really, really big ones.
• Carry out the actions needed to bring these goals about
• Cancel appointments for illness or true emergencies only. Hair or nail appointments are not emergencies.

For more information or to learn about rates for EMDR, Psychotherapy, Life Coaching, or Clinical Supervision, see page "Services Offered".

Please note: I do not accept insurance for EMDR sessions, Life Coaching, or Clinical Supervision.