Going to therapy for the first time can be a bit scary. What will the counsellor ask you? Should you prepare anything before you go? How much will you be expected to share right off the bat? These questions are normal and a natural part of the process. Counselling can be daunting at first, but by understanding what to expect from your first therapy session, you can alleviate this anxiety and feel prepared.
How is a typical first session organized?
Each counsellor and client relationship is unique. However, there are aspects of first therapy sessions you can generally expect with each clinician.
1. Settling In: The first few minutes of your session will be spent settling into the space. Your counsellor may choose to give a brief introduction of themselves or take some time to set the agenda for the session. Time is usually spent reviewing limits of confidentiality and obtaining your consent for treatment.
2. Sharing of initial concerns: You will have the chance to outline what brought you to the session, which may include specific mental health concerns, types of treatment you are interested in, or areas of life you would like some support in.
3. Getting to know your counsellor: Your counsellor can provide some background information on their areas of specialty, training, and approach to therapy. Feel free to ask questions during this time to gain more insight into how your counsellor operates and how they can help you.
4. Getting to know you further: Your counsellor will ask questions to understand your story better and develop context for the concerns you have.
5. Discussing goals and your expectations: Based on the information you shared, your counsellor may have some treatment methods or strategies which they feel may be a good fit for you. Feel free to engage in this process collaboratively with your therapist, as you will be the expert in knowing which approaches resonate with you and can be applied in your everyday life.
6. Concluding the session: The counsellor will most likely summarize the session in terms of what was talked about and any goals that were discussed. Depending on your preferences, homework assignments may be set at this time for things you can do to support yourself and build skills at home until your next session. Your counsellor may also give you the opportunity to share how you felt about the session and request feedback for how they can improve your experience.
What to expect from your counsellor
A counsellor is not able to provide a magic answer that will “fix” what you have been experiencing. However, they have training and knowledge that can assist you with these struggles. A counsellor’s role is to walk alongside you and provide evidence-based strategies for improvement while providing a safe, non-judgemental space.
What to expect from yourself
Do not be surprised if you feel mentally and/or physically drained after your first session. Therapy is hard work! However, many clients also report feeling a sense of relief at having shared some things that may have been sitting inside for long time. Take time to care for yourself after a session by grabbing your favourite warm drink on the way home, spending some time in nature, or doing whatever makes you feel good. Do not be surprised if realizations or reflections come up in the days after a session. This is very normal and means you are processing what was spoken about.
I want to book a first session. Where do I start?
Island Clinical Counselling offers in-person or virtual sessions through our offices in Nanaimo, Duncan, and Port Alberni. You can use the online booking link to find a time with any of our clinicians, or feel free to call our intake line at 778-762-3750 and we will be happy to assist you.
Booking link: https://islandclinicalcounselling.ca/booking/
Written by Cat Zydyk
References:
Campbell, L. (2021, May 27). Things to expect (and not!) in your first therapy session. PsychCentral. https://psychcentral.com/lib/what-to-expect-in-your-first-counseling-session
Sinhaa, A [@arunima.sinhaa]. (2024, July 17). Your first therapy session: what to expect [Photograph]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/C9hjf_UMqiT/?igsh=bGQ3ZXIxNm83ZDhm