What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Nervous about starting therapy? What to expect in your first session
Starting therapy is a big step. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions, such as excitement, nervousness, or even uncertainty. If you’re wondering what your first therapy session will be like, this guide will help you feel more prepared and comfortable as you embark on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
A Warm Welcome
Therapy is meant to be a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself. Your therapist will start the session by helping you feel at ease. They will understand that opening up can take time and will meet you where you are.
Reviewing Paperwork and Policies
At the beginning of the first therapy session, your therapist will review the important details of the therapy process. Things like confidentiality, cancellation policies, and what to expect from therapy. This is also an opportunity to ask any logistical questions or bring up any concerns you may have.
Getting to Know you
Your therapist will ask questions to get a better understanding of what has brought you to therapy, your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. Some of the questions might include:
What brought you to therapy?
Have you been to therapy before?
What are some key struggles or stressors in your life right now?
How will you know if therapy is working?
What are your expectations and hopes for therapy?
It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers! This is just the beginning and an opportunity to reflect.
Setting Goals for Therapy
You and your therapist will work together to identify some goals for your sessions. Your goals may start out very broadly, but over time, these goals will most likely become more specific as you gain clarity on what you want to achieve.
Creating a Comfortable Space
Therapy is about growth, self-discovery, and healing. Your first session is just the starting point. If you don’t know what to say, that’s okay! Your therapist will guide the conversation and create a space where you feel supported.
Next Steps
At the end of your first session, your therapist will discuss what to expect moving forward. You may set a schedule for future sessions, discuss initial strategies to try, or reflect on how the session felt for you.
Final Thoughts
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act of self-care. Remember, therapy is a journey, and your therapist is there to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or concerns about your first session, don’t hesitate to reach out. You deserve a space to heal, grow, and thrive!