Reaching out for therapy can feel vulnerable. Many people put off making the first call because they are unsure what they will be asked, worry that they will say the wrong thing, or feel uncertain about whether therapy will be a fit. Those worries make sense, especially when you have been carrying a lot on your own.
At DBT of South Jersey, the first step is a free 15- to 30-minute consultation call with our Intake Coordinator. This conversation is not a therapy appointment, and you do not need to prepare a perfect explanation of your life or your mental health. The purpose is to help you understand the practice, share a little about what you are looking for, and consider whether our services may fit your needs.
Before the call to discuss therapy
After you request a consultation, you will choose a time to speak with the Intake Coordinator. DBT of South Jersey asks prospective clients to save 856-625-6550 in their contacts so they know the incoming call is from the practice. Missing a call happens, especially when life is busy, so saving the number can reduce one small source of stress.
You may find it helpful to have a few notes nearby, though this is optional. Some people jot down the type of support they are seeking, questions about scheduling, whether they prefer virtual or in-person care, and insurance information. It is also okay to say, “I am not sure how to explain it yet.” The intake process is designed for people who are still finding the words.
During the therapy consultation
The Intake Coordinator may ask what has brought you to therapy now, what concerns are affecting your daily life, and what type of support you hope to find. You can share as much or as little as you are comfortable sharing at this stage.
The conversation may also include practical details, such as:
- Whether you are seeking individual therapy, family support, comprehensive DBT, trauma-focused therapy, groups, or another service
- Whether virtual or in-person care may work best for you
- Your general scheduling needs, including daytime, evening, or weekend availability
- Questions about current insurance participation, out-of-network reimbursement, Lyra, or VA-related care
- Whether the practice has availability that fits your needs
The Intake Coordinator is not there to judge whether your pain is “serious enough.” You do not have to prove that you deserve support. Their role is to help you understand your options and guide you toward a clear next step.
The therapy consultation is not a clinical assessment
A consultation call is different from an intake appointment with a therapist. It is not designed to provide therapy, diagnose a condition, or fully assess risk, history, or treatment needs. If you move forward with services, you will have space to talk with your therapist in more depth and develop goals together.
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency department. A consultation call should not be used as emergency support.
Insurance and financial questions about therapy
People often hesitate to schedule because they do not know whether they can afford therapy. You are welcome to bring those questions to the consultation.
DBT of South Jersey is currently in-network with select Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, accepts Lyra, and works with the VA to serve Veterans. The practice is out of network with other insurance plans and can provide information about fees and possible reimbursement. Because benefits vary by plan, the FAQ page is the best place to check for the most current details before you schedule.
Clear information matters. You should know what questions to ask and what options may be available before you decide whether to begin care.
After the call, before your first therapy appointment
If DBT of South Jersey appears to be a fit and an appointment is available, the Intake Coordinator can explain what comes next. This may include paperwork, insurance verification steps, appointment scheduling, telehealth instructions, office details, and information about your therapist or service.
Some people decide to move forward right away. Others need time to think, check benefits, talk with family, or compare options. Both responses are welcome. Therapy works best when you have enough information to give informed consent and enough space to decide what feels right for you.
You can take the first step without having every answer
People often come to consultation calls feeling uncertain, tired, hopeful, skeptical, or all of those things at once. You do not need to be ready for every part of therapy before you make contact. A first conversation can be a place to learn what support may look like and whether the next step feels possible.
DBT of South Jersey serves teens, adults, and families across South Jersey through virtual and in-person care. Our Intake Coordinator is here to meet you with information, respect, and a clear path forward.
Start Therapy in Moorestown or Voorhees, NJ
You deserve support, understanding, and tools that work for real life. Reach out to DBT of South Jersey to explore personalized DBT support, skills coaching, or guidance—whether for immediate assistance or ongoing emotional growth. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
- Book a call to speak with our intake coordinator to see if therapy is right for you.
- Begin meeting with a skilled therapist.
- Build the skills you need to thrive!
Other Services Offered at DBT of South Jersey
At DBT of South Jersey, we offer a wide range of therapeutic services to support your mental health journey. Specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we help individuals manage intense emotions, build healthy relationships, and develop effective coping strategies. In addition to supporting you with DBT, we provide individual counseling, therapy for teens and children, trauma therapy, therapy for OCD and anxiety, therapy for anxiety, sadness, and self-doubt, as well as couples and family therapy. We are also proud to offer LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, veterans services, holistic healing, Reiki, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to help clients heal from trauma and emotional distress. Whether you’re navigating personal challenges or looking to enhance your well-being, our compassionate team of expert therapists is here to help you create the life you deserve.