If you’ve landed on this page it probably means you’re thinking about starting therapy. You might be a little nervous, or you may be very nervous and have tons of questions. Whenever you start a new journey it’s natural to be anxious. It’s cool.
As a counselor of 13 plus years I can share with you many people think it’s like T.V. or the movies, and it’s not. I mean yes I have a comfy couch, tons of books in my office, and a million boxes of tissues but other than that it’s not like T.V.
This post will help you know what to expect in your first therapy session. You will learn what happens at the beginning, middle, and end of your session.
In your first therapy session expect the counselor to have read your intake and might have also prepared a few questions to ask you this typically at the intro session where you will begin to discuss what brought you into therapy. Discussion of what your hopes and goals are for counseling.
At the beginning of the session
The counselor should go over the agreement forms you signed. This will help you to have a clear understanding of the counseling experience. They will discuss confidentiality and privacy. A great counselor will share the limitations of confidentiality.
Next, the counselor will talk about their counseling style. You will learn about how they conduct counseling sessions. Also, you will find out how the therapy process works specifically with their practice.
The counselor will discuss their social media policy, how to handle cancellations and reschedule. They should discuss the benefits and the risk of starting counseling. Be prepared to hear about the limitations of distance counseling and what to do if you all are disconnected during an online session.
Even though you are getting started the termination process should be discussed. This will help you to know what will happen when you are done and no longer in need of therapy. At the end of this introduction, it is important to also ask any questions to make sure you understand the process.
I make sure to tell my clients if they have any questions or concerns to feel comfortable discussing with me. I also, let them know it’s okay to disagree or tell me if I’m off course. It’s about having an open honest conversation. If I’m going to help you in your healing journey you have to feel comfortable trusting me in the process.
My clients know I’m going to cheer them on when they’re doing well and respectfully carefully address the challenges they have as they are growing in their healing journey.
Halfway through your first therapy session
This part is like an interview. The counselor will have reviewed your intake questionnaire and will have questions for you based on what you have shared. It’s where you get to start telling your story about what brought you into therapy. You will also be able to share what you hope to gain from the experience and how you have been navigating the challenges you have been facing.
Expect questions as you are talking. Some counselors may not ask any questions and allow you to share your full story uninterrupted. Other counselors may ask you to pause and ask questions for clarity. Make sure to be open and honest about your answers. This will help the counselor to be able to gain the most from what you are sharing. Your honesty will help the counselor to better understand your worldview. This can also help the counselor to start thinking about a potential treatment plan to help you overcome the difficulties you are facing.
I’ve had clients tell me they didn’t share the truth with their previous counselors and did not find it as helpful. Of course, because the counselor did not have their true story. It can be uncomfortable to be vulnerable. Even if it hurts before it gets better it helps.
Coming to the end of your first therapy session
At this time you may still have more things to share but the session will be coming to a close. You will discuss the date and time of your next session. You might get homework in the first session. Sometimes counselors will have a clear idea of what is needed and assign a practice activity. Be prepared to discuss more details of where you are experiencing in the upcoming sessions.
When the session ends
Take some time after the session and process your thoughts emotions about the counseling experience. If homework is given complete it before the next session.
You might want to quickly consider if the counselor was a good match for you. Be aware, sometimes you know right from the start this counselor gets me and I feel comfortable sharing. Other times you may not be so sure. That’s why it’s very important to not bail out at the very beginning.
I share with my clients the different feelings they may have in the beginning middle and end of sessions we experienced together. Although it is never my intention for people to be upset I make sure to let people know it might get worse before it gets better. In most cases, there are no quick fixes. Life will not get better magically overnight. It takes about two to three times before you start the see more in-depth progress.
If you do not feel comfortable from the very beginning you may need to find another counselor. Sometimes you have to visit with a person more than wants to know whether it is a good match or not. Do not be discouraged if you have to try several counselors before you find a great fit. Trying substitutes for therapy only get’s you so far. So do not give up your search.
I make sure to share with clients if I am not a good fit it is acceptable. You need to find the counselor you feel the most comfortable working with to gain the most from the experience.
The choice is yours
Here are some key points for you to consider in regards to getting started with the counseling experience. I hope you found this information helpful. Be aware, each counselor you meet may do some introductions differently. Finding a great counselor fit is super important. Making the commitment to improve your life starts with you.
My team and I are here to help you in your healing journey. If you are ready to get started let’s go! This is the moment where you change your life. Look no further and schedule your appointment today.
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