So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and book your first therapy session. Congratulations! That’s a huge step. But now, as the date approaches, you might be feeling a mix of excitement, curiosity, and nerves. Don’t worry—those feelings are totally normal. Let’s walk through what to expect during that first session, so you can walk in (or log on, if it’s virtual) feeling a little more prepared and a lot less anxious.
“So, What Brings You Here?”
This is the moment you’ve probably been thinking about: the big question, “So, what brings you here today?” It might feel like a lot of pressure, but remember, there are no wrong answers.
You don’t need to have a perfectly crafted story or know exactly how to describe what’s going on. Maybe you’re dealing with anxiety that’s been building up over time, going through a difficult breakup, or just feeling off and aren’t sure why. Whatever it is, your therapist is there to listen, not judge. They’re there to help you untangle your thoughts, understand your emotions, and provide support, no matter where you’re starting from.
Setting the Stage
After you’ve shared a bit about why you’re there, your therapist will likely ask you some follow-up questions to get a clearer picture of your situation. You might talk about your personal history, your current relationships, work-life balance, or other stressors that are impacting you.
Think of it as setting the stage for the work you’re going to do together. The more your therapist knows about you, the better they can tailor their approach to meet your unique needs. Don’t hesitate to share what feels relevant; this is a collaborative process.
The Therapy Game Plan
Once your therapist has a good sense of what’s going on, they’ll probably talk to you about what therapy might look like going forward. This could include discussing what kind of therapy they use, how often you might meet, and what your goals are.
If this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry - it’s all flexible. The game plan is meant to provide a framework, but it can evolve as you go. You and your therapist will work together to adjust the approach based on your progress and any new insights that emerge along the way. This is your journey, and the plan is there to support you.
Ask Away!
Your therapist will likely give you a chance to ask any questions you might have, and this is an important part of the session. Whether you’re wondering about the nitty-gritty of how therapy works, how confidentiality is maintained, or anything else, this is your chance to ask.
No question is too small, too big, or too silly - if it’s on your mind, it’s worth asking. Your comfort and understanding are crucial, so don’t hold back. This is your time, and your therapist wants you to feel empowered and informed.
Wrapping It Up
As the session comes to a close, your therapist might summarize what you talked about and discuss the next steps. They’ll check in with how you’re feeling after your first session and see if there’s anything else you want to cover before wrapping up. You might discuss scheduling your next appointment (if you’re ready to keep going) or any follow-up tasks, like journaling or reflecting on what was discussed. Then, you’ll say your goodbyes, and that’s it - you’ve officially made it through your first therapy session!
This initial session is just the beginning, and from here, you’ll start to build momentum as you continue exploring and addressing the issues that brought you in.
Final Thoughts
Walking into your first therapy session might feel like stepping into the unknown, but hopefully, this breakdown helps make it feel a little less mysterious. Therapy is a journey, and while the first step might be the hardest, it’s also the most important. Once you get past those initial nerves, you’ll be on your way to gaining the joy, clarity, and stability you’ve been craving.
If you're ready to book your session, head to our contact page to send us a message or book your appointment here!
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