What You Need for Your First Session
Intake Forms & Preparing for Your First Session
Before your first appointment, you will receive an email with intake forms to complete. These forms provide important background information about you, your concerns, and your goals for therapy. Completing them in advance allows us to focus on your needs right away rather than spending session time on paperwork.
The intake forms typically include:
✔️ General information and contact details
✔️ Confidentiality and consent agreements
✔️ Health and mental health history
✔️ Your reasons for seeking therapy and personal goals
If you have any trouble completing the forms or need assistance, please feel free to reach out. All information shared is confidential and used to provide the best possible care.
In addition to the intake forms, please take a moment to review the Fees and Payment section, which outlines session costs, payment options, and cancellation policies. Understanding these policies in advance ensures a smooth experience and helps avoid unexpected billing issues.
Office Location & Directions
My office is located in the heart of downtown Fargo at:
📍 650 1st Ave N, Suite 114
(Historic Gardner Building – different from mailing address)
The Gardner Building is a historic landmark in Fargo. It is a tall brick building primarily used for apartments, with businesses on the main floor. Conveniently located across from the federal courthouse and just east of The Plains Art Museum, the building offers easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and coffee houses—perfect if you’d like to relax after your session.
Parking Information
🚗 Client Parking Options:
A visitor parking lot is available on the west side of the building. Look for the five clearly marked “Visitor Parking – 1 Hour Limit” spots.
You may also park in reserved spots #23 and #24, which are marked “Reserved for CRSW Only.” These spots are available for my clients only.
Street parking is also available.
Helpful Parking Tips:
✔️ Parking is not an issue as I have reserved spots for my clients.
✔️ If all reserved spots are full, street parking is an option.
✔️ Please do not park in other reserved spots (unless instructed), as your vehicle may be towed.
If you encounter any parking difficulties, feel free to call me for assistance.
Finding My Office
When you arrive at the Gardner Building, enter through the north entrance, across from the federal courthouse.
Once inside:
➡️ Turn right and walk past the hair salon.
➡️ My office is on the right, labeled:
"Heather Guttormson, MS, LMFT, Certified Discernment Counselor."
🪑 Please have a seat in the waiting area, and I will be with you as soon as possible. If you are feeling nervous about your first session, that’s completely normal. My goal is to provide a warm and supportive space where you can feel at ease.
What to Expect in Your First Session
The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for me to understand your reasons for seeking therapy. We will discuss:
Your intake form responses and any questions you may have
What brings you to therapy, and what do you hope to achieve
Any previous counseling or therapy experiences, and what has (or hasn’t) worked for you
My approach to therapy and how we can work together effectively
A review of office policies, including confidentiality, session structure, and communication expectations
Therapy is a collaborative process, and there is no pressure to have all the answers right away. My role is to support and guide you at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
If you have any questions before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working with you!
