What to expect when you start
Jill Smith & Associates walks you from first inquiry through matching, paperwork, your first session, and ongoing care—so starting therapy feels clear, not confusing.
New clients
From first inquiry to ongoing care
Five steps. You can see the path before you read the details.
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Share what you need
Your first step is a short inquiry—online or by phone—so our team understands what brought you here.
When you request an appointment or call 803-814-5559, tell us what you are looking for in plain language: anxiety, couples work, support for a child or teen, trauma, postpartum concerns, or something harder to name.
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Thoughtful therapist matching
We match you based on specialty, location, schedule, and fit—not a random open slot.
Jill Smith & Associates is built around specialized clinicians. Matching considers your presenting concerns, preferred office or telehealth, availability, and any clinician preference you note.
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Intake paperwork before you arrive
Complete forms ahead of time so your first session can focus on you—not clipboard logistics.
After you are matched, you will receive intake paperwork to complete before your visit. Forms cover contact details, consent, history relevant to care, and payment information.
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Your first session
The first session is a structured conversation about what is going on, what you want, and whether the fit feels right.
In your first meeting, your therapist will listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and begin mapping goals with you. You can expect warmth and professionalism—not pressure to share everything at once.
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Ongoing care
After the first session, you and your therapist set a pace that fits your goals—often weekly or every other week.
Ongoing therapy at Jill Smith & Associates is collaborative. Some clients work for a focused season; others prefer longer-term support. Your clinician will check in on pacing and goals as life shifts.
Our client guarantee
Your experience matters. We stand behind the care we provide and make it easy to reach us if something is not working.
Common Questions
First-session FAQs
Straight answers about matching, paperwork, fees, and what happens next.
How do I get started?
Request an appointment online or call 803-814-5559. Share what you need help with, preferred location or telehealth, and timing. Our team matches you with a clinician and follows up, usually within one business day.
How are therapists matched?
We match based on specialty, office or telehealth preference, availability, and any clinician preference you share. If the fit is not right, we help you reconnect with another therapist.
What should I bring to the first session?
Complete intake paperwork beforehand when possible. Bring a payment method for your session fee and any questions about goals, scheduling, or telehealth. Arrive a few minutes early if you are new to the office.
Do you accept insurance?
Jill Smith & Associates is a self-pay practice. We can provide superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement. See Self-Pay & Insurance for fee ranges and payment details.
Where are your offices?
Downtown Columbia (1777 Bull Street), Lexington (426 South Lake Drive), and Northeast Columbia / Blythewood (201 McNulty Street). Secure telehealth is available for clients in South Carolina.
Ready when you are
Tell us what you need and we will help match you with the right therapist. Most new clients are seen within five business days.
If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911.