Question 1

How do I start therapy with you?

Accepted Answer

To get started, you can click the “Schedule Intake”(https://care.headway.co/providers/zijin-zhang?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=139898) button on my website. This will take you to a secure platform where you can choose an available time and book your first session. If you have any questions before scheduling, feel free to reach out and I will be happy to help.

Question 2

Is the availability I see a recurring availability?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. The time you see on the scheduling page reflects a current opening, but it may not be available as a recurring weekly or biweekly time.

This can happen for a few reasons. For example, a client may have canceled their regular session, a time slot may be temporarily open between ongoing sessions, or the time may be used by someone who meets less frequently, such as every other week.

If you are looking for a consistent time or have a preference for a specific time, you are welcome to reach out. I can share my current availability and help you find a time that fits your schedule.

Question 3

Do I have to be “ready” or have a clear goal before starting?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Many clients come to therapy unsure of what exactly they want to work on. Part of our work together is exploring what’s most pressing or meaningful for you, helping you identify patterns, and uncovering goals along the way.

Question 4

Why don’t you offer a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

I do not offer free consultations at this time, as my website already provides detailed information about my approach, specialties, session structure, and fees. This helps you make an informed decision before scheduling.

If you have any questions or would like clarification before booking, please feel free to email me at admin@zijincounseling.com.(mailto:admin@zijincounseling.com) I’m always happy to provide guidance and ensure you feel comfortable moving forward.

Question 5

What can I expect during my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

The first session is the intake, and it usually lasts about 55–60 minutes.
During this session, we will cover three main areas:
1. Your current concerns
2. Your background and history
3. Your goals for therapy
The intake is a mix of structured questions and conversation. 
You can skip any questions you’re uncomfortable with.

Question 6

Do I have to talk about trauma?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to discuss trauma unless and until you feel ready.

If trauma is part of your experience, we can approach it at your pace, or choose to focus on other areas that feel more relevant or manageable to you.

Your comfort and sense of safety are always prioritized in our work together.

Question 7

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

I’m based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. However, I do not offer in-person sessions. All of my therapy is conducted remotely via Zoom, allowing you to participate from anywhere in Pennsylvania.

Question 8

Do you offer in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

No, I currently only provide telehealth sessions. While I used to offer in-person therapy in the past, all sessions are now conducted remotely.

Question 9

What are your office hours? Do you work on weekends?

Accepted Answer

My office hours are Monday through Thursday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM. I do not schedule sessions on weekends, as those days are reserved for rest and administrative work. If you need support, we can find a time during my regular office hours that works best for you.

Question 10

Do you offer sessions during holidays?

Accepted Answer

I recognize that holidays can be challenging or emotionally triggering for some individuals so I try to be flexible during holiday weeks and can usually schedule sessions, though I avoid major holidays like Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. If I’m traveling, I’ll give you advance notice so we can plan sessions around it, ensuring you still have support when you need it most.

Question 11

Where are you licensed?

Accepted Answer

I am currently licensed to provide therapy in Pennsylvania.

Question 12

Are you planning to get licensed in other states?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I am planning to expand my licensure in the future, with potential availability in states such as California and Washington beginning in 2027.

If you have questions about specific locations or eligibility, feel free to reach out and I can provide more information.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

THE COGNITIVE TRIANGLE

Thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. Changing one can influence the others.

Thoughts

Behaviors

Feelings

COGNITIVE DISTORTIONS

MAGNIFICATION

OVERGENERALIZATION

MINIMIZATION

Minimizing the importance of events.

Drawing broad conclusions from limited experiences

Minimizing the importance of events.

"One mistake ruined everything."

"II failed once-I’ll always fail.”

"My success doesn't really matter."

"SHOULD" STATEMETNS

ALL-OR-NOTHING THINKING

MAGICAL THINKING

Rigid rules about how things must be.

Seeing things as black and white, with no middle ground.

Believing thoughts can directly affect outcomes.

"I should always be productive.."

"I messed up, so I’m terrible at this."

"If I worry about it, I can prevent it."

...and more

COGNITIVE REFRAMING

It's not the situation itself, but how we interpret it.

IDENTIFY THE THOUGHT

EXAMINE THE EVIDENCE

REFRAME THE THOUGHT

CHALLENGE DISTORTIONS

BEHAVIORAL ACTIVATION

Action comes first; motivation often follows.

IDENTIFY AVOIDED ACTIVITIES

MOOD AWARENESS

TAKE SMALL ACTIONS

TRACK IMPROVEMENT

SCHEDULE IT

Frequently asked questions