Getting started, step by step.
Most new clients go from first contact to first session in about a week. Here’s what happens along the way.
Book a free consultation
Request a 30-minute phone or video time on our calendar, and we’ll confirm it within one business day. Rather talk first? Call or text (206) 627-0570. We reply within one business day.
Have the consultation
Tell us what’s going on and what you’re hoping for, and ask anything. We’ll suggest a therapist and an approach, or help you find someone else if we’re not the right fit.
We check your insurance
Have your insurance card handy. We confirm your benefits so you know your copay, coinsurance, or deductible before you start. Paying yourself? It’s $180 per session, and you’ll get a Good Faith Estimate.
Fill out your paperwork
We send a link to our secure client portal for intake forms and consent, which you complete before the first session.
Come to your first session
Most new clients are seen within 5 business days. Sessions are about an hour, in person in Ballard or on Vashon Island, or by video anywhere in Washington. After that, most people meet weekly.
If you’re a parent
You can book the consultation for your teen.
We’ll usually talk with you first, then meet your teen. In Washington, teens 13 and older can consent to their own outpatient mental health care, so we also make sure your teen wants to take part.
Before therapy starts, we go over what stays between your teen and their therapist, what we share with you, and how you’ll stay involved. If we’re ever worried about your teen’s safety, we will tell you.
If your teen has been hurting themselves or talking about suicide, read this page for parents.
Sooner than that?
If things feel urgent, say so when you reach out. Urgent needs are usually seen within 48 hours. If you or your teen are in danger right now, call or text 988 or call 911.
Booking runs through our secure client portal (Sessions Health), the same system that holds our records. Please don’t include symptoms or health history in email. Website privacy.
Get started
Start with a free 30-minute consultation.
Request a time on our calendar for a phone or video call, and we’ll confirm it. It’s a chance to ask questions and see whether we’re a good fit, with no commitment either way.
Most new clients have a first appointment within 5 business days. We reply to calls, texts, and emails within one business day.
Prefer email? hello@understorytherapygroup.com. Please leave symptoms and health history out of email; we’ll cover that on the call.