What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Hello, if you’re here, you might be considering taking the first step towards therapy, or maybe you’ve already booked your first session. Either way, I want to welcome you and reassure you that seeking help is a brave and positive step towards improving your mental health. I understand that the idea of starting therapy can be a bit daunting. So, let’s walk through what you can expect during our first therapy session together.
The Warm Welcome
When you arrive at your first session, the first thing you’ll notice is that we’re here to create a safe and welcoming space for you. Whether it’s an in-person meeting in a cozy office or a virtual session, my goal is to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Don’t worry if you’re feeling nervous—that’s completely normal.
Getting to Know Each Other
The initial session is largely about introductions. Think of it as a two-way street: it’s your chance to get to know me and my approach to therapy, and it’s also my opportunity to understand a bit more about you and what brings you here.
Sharing Your Story
You might be wondering what you’ll need to talk about. In the first session, we’ll explore:
Your Background: This includes basic information about your life, such as your family, work, and relationships.
Your Reasons for Seeking Therapy: We’ll discuss what prompted you to seek help. You can share any specific issues or challenges you’re facing, whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or anything else on your mind.
Your Goals: We’ll talk about what you hope to achieve through therapy. Whether it’s gaining coping skills, understanding yourself better, or addressing specific problems, knowing your goals helps us tailor the sessions to your needs.
Setting Expectations
Therapy is a collaborative process. During our first session, we’ll set some expectations for our work together:
Frequency and Length of Sessions: Typically, sessions are about 45 minutes long, and we’ll discuss how often you’d like to meet.
Confidentiality: Everything you share is confidential, with a few exceptions related to safety and legal obligations, which we’ll go over.
Therapeutic Approach: I’ll explore my therapeutic approach and answer any questions you may have. Whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, Play Therapy, or another method, understanding the process can help you feel more at ease.
Addressing Your Questions
Feel free to ask any questions you might have. This is your space, and it’s important that you feel comfortable and informed. Common questions might include:
What is your therapeutic approach?
What can I expect during our sessions?
What are some realistic goals I can set for myself during therapy?
The First Session is Just the Beginning
Remember, the first session is just the beginning of our journey together. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—relief, curiosity, anxiety, hope. All these feelings are valid, and they’re part of the process. As we continue, you’ll likely find that therapy becomes a valuable and enriching part of your life.
Resources for Further Support
If you’d like to learn more about starting therapy, here are some helpful resources:
Psychology Today: Offers articles and advice on what to expect in therapy.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides resources on mental health and finding the right therapist.
American Psychological Association (APA): Offers insights on the benefits of therapy and what to expect.
Taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous and significant move. My aim is to support you through this journey with empathy, understanding, and professional guidance. If you have any questions or need more information before your first session, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help.
Looking forward to meeting you and working together,
Kendra Sievers
LCSW