Getting Started with Therapy: What to Expect in Your First Session
Your first therapy session establishes the foundation for our work together through
You deserve support that helps you understand your emotional patterns and create lasting change. Together, we’ll explore the roots of your current challenges and build practical skills for moving forward.
Secure video sessions provide convenient, effective therapy from your space—available to clients throughout Minnesota and California. In-person sessions available in Woodbury, Minnesota.
I help adults navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and emotion regulation using evidence-based techniques that address root causes.
I believe in our innate capacity for resilience and growth. As a bilingual therapist, I’m deeply committed to understanding the root of where we find ourselves – because our past shapes our present, but it doesn’t have to define our future.
Through my clinical work and personal experiences with postpartum mental health, I’ve developed a profound appreciation for the courage it takes to seek support during challenging transitions.
I bring over a decade of experience working with diverse communities, combining evidence-based practices with cultural understanding. My approach integrates warmth with proven strategies to foster genuine healing. Together, we’ll explore the patterns that have shaped your life while building practical tools for the future you want to create.
Licensed teletherapy services are available to residents throughout Minnesota and California. And in-person therapy sessions in Woodbury, Minnesota (fees are the same).
All therapy sessions are 50 minutes. Individual therapy sessions are $175. Couples therapy sessions are $225.
A free consultation is available to determine if we’re a good fit before beginning therapy.
I accept Optum, Aetna, Cigna, United Health Care, United Health Medicare Advantage, Oxford, Magellan, Quest Behavioral Health, and Carelon Behavioral Health plans for California residents.
I accept Medica, Optum, Cigna, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota Medicare Advantage, United Health Care (Optum), Oxford, Oscar, Quest Behavioral Health, and Carelon Behavioral Health plans for Minnesota residents.
Izote Therapy is named after El Salvador’s national flower, the Izote. This resilient plant thrives in harsh conditions and represents our natural capacity for growth even during difficult times. I chose this name to reflect my belief in your innate ability to heal and flourish with the right support.
The length of therapy varies significantly based on your goals, the complexity of your concerns, and your progress. Some clients achieve their goals within 8-12 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll regularly review your progress and adjust our plan accordingly.
I currently offer appointments Monday through Thursday between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM Central Time. I maintain a few evening slots for clients who cannot meet during standard business hours.
You can schedule a consultation through my online booking system on this website or by emailing me directly. I typically respond to inquiries within 24-48 business hours.
Yes, I accept various insurance plans, though coverage differs between Minnesota and California. Before our first session, I’ll verify your benefits and explain any costs you might expect. Please contact me directly to check if I accept your specific insurance plan.
Your first session focuses on getting to know each other and discussing what brings you to therapy. I’ll ask questions about your current challenges, background, and goals. This initial meeting helps us determine if we’re a good fit and begin creating a roadmap for our work together. You’ll have space to ask questions and share only what feels comfortable.
Izote Therapy lleva el nombre de la flor nacional de El Salvador, el Izote. Esta planta crece fuerte incluso en condiciones difíciles y representa nuestra capacidad natural para desarrollarnos durante tiempos complicados. Elegí este nombre porque creo firmemente en tu capacidad innata para sanar y florecer cuando tienes el apoyo adecuado.
La duración de la terapia depende de tus objetivos, la complejidad de tus preocupaciones y cómo vas avanzando. Algunos clientes logran lo que buscan en 8-12 sesiones, mientras que otros se benefician de un apoyo por más tiempo. Revisaremos juntos tu progreso regularmente y ajustaremos el plan según tus necesidades.
Ofrezco citas de lunes a jueves entre las 9:00 AM y las 6:00 PM (hora central). También tengo algunos espacios por la tarde para quienes no pueden asistir durante el horario habitual de trabajo.
Puedes agendar una consulta a través del sistema de reservas en este sitio web o enviándome un correo directamente. Generalmente respondo a todos los mensajes en un plazo de 24-48 horas laborales.
Sí, trabajo con varios planes de seguro, aunque la cobertura es diferente en Minnesota y California. Antes de nuestra primera sesión, verificaré tus beneficios y te explicaré cualquier costo que puedas tener. Por favor, contáctame directamente para ver si acepto tu plan específico de seguro.
En tu primera sesión nos enfocaremos en conocernos y hablar sobre lo que te trae a terapia. Te haré preguntas sobre tus retos actuales, un poco de tu historia personal y tus metas. Este primer encuentro nos ayuda a ver si conectamos bien y a empezar a crear un mapa para nuestro trabajo juntos. Tendrás espacio para hacer tus propias preguntas y compartir solo lo que te sientas cómodo/a.
Jennifer Marks, LICSW/LCSW provides therapy in English and Spanish for anxiety, trauma, and emotion regulation. A certified CBT and PE therapist with over a decade of experience, she serves individuals and couples in Minnesota and California via telehealth. In-person therapy available in Woodbury, Minnesota.
MN License LICSW #33035
CA License LCSW #72965
Secure telehealth sessions available in Minnesota and California. Contact me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
611 Bielenberg Drive
Suite 3-112
Woodbury, MN 55125
Your first therapy session establishes the foundation for our work together through
Your emotions exist in relationship with you. This relationship needs attention, care,
Lasting relationship transformation happens when both partners understand the patterns they’ve created