Free Introductory Call
Meet Your Future Therapist — Free
30 minutes to help you make an informed decision — no strings attached, no pressure.
1. What It Is
Free Introductory Call — a short (up to 30 minutes) online meeting with a psychologist from the «Encyclopedia» Center. This is not therapy but an opportunity to personally meet the specialist, discuss your needs, and understand whether this way of working suits you.
2. Why an Introductory Call
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions in therapy. Research shows that the therapeutic alliance — trust and mutual understanding between client and therapist — is a key predictor of success. An introductory meeting helps you:
- Feel the connection — that "match" we wrote about in "The Chemical Elements of Successful Therapy" ;
- Discuss your needs — share your situation and hear the specialist's preliminary perspective;
- Understand the method — the therapist will explain how EMDR (or another approach) applies to your specific case;
- Ease anxiety — many clients feel nervous before their first session; an introductory call reduces uncertainty;
- Make a decision — at your own pace, with no pressure.
3. How the Meeting Goes
| 0–5 min | Greetings, briefly about the center and the therapist |
|---|---|
| 5–15 min | Your concerns: what brought you here, what's troubling you |
| 15–25 min | How EMDR can help: explaining the method for your specific case |
| 25–30 min | Organizational questions, next steps |
The meeting takes place in a video call format (Zoom, Google Meet, Telegram, or WhatsApp — whichever you prefer). No special preparation is needed: just be in a quiet place where you won't be disturbed.
Important: this is not a therapy session. We don't conduct diagnostics or deep processing. The goal is to get acquainted and understand whether this therapist and method are right for you.
4. Questions You Can Ask
The introductory meeting is a two-way process . You're not being "interviewed" — you're also evaluating the therapist. Here are questions worth asking:
Tip: a good therapist answers these questions calmly and without defensiveness. If the specialist dodges questions or seems irritated — that's worth thinking about.
5. What Happens After
After the introductory meeting, there are no obligations . Three scenarios are possible:
- You decide to start therapy — we arrange a schedule. Your first full session could be as soon as next week;
- You want to meet another specialist — this is completely fine. We can arrange another free call with a different therapist at the center;
- You take time to think — also perfectly fine. We won't pressure you or send pushy reminders.
The golden rule: therapy begins only when you're ready. The free call is an opportunity, not an obligation.
6. Common Questions
Is it really free? No hidden conditions?
Yes, the call is completely free. No hidden charges, prepayments, or obligations. We offer an introductory meeting because we believe: when a client finds their therapist — it's a win for everyone.
What if I don't know which specialist I need?
You can write to us with your request in free form, and we'll help match you with the therapist whose profile best fits. Or choose for yourself — on the Find a Therapist page.
Can I join the call with my partner (for couples therapy)?
Yes, if you're considering couples therapy, the introductory call can be joint. Just mention it when booking.
What if I'm not ready to talk about my problem with a stranger?
You can share as much as you feel comfortable with. You can describe your situation in general terms: "anxiety," "relationship difficulties," "trauma aftermath." That's enough for a first conversation.
What if I change my mind and want to cancel?
Just write to us. No penalties, no awkward questions — we understand that plans change.
7. Book Your Free Call
Contact Us via Messengers
Choose your preferred messenger — we'll reply promptly and help you schedule your free introductory call:
"The most important step in therapy is the first one. And it can be easy. A free introductory call removes barriers: you don't need to decide anything in advance, you don't need to prepare. Just come as you are — and feel whether this is your person."
Ilya Tsar, Director of the «Encyclopedia» Center