What happens in my first therapy session?

Going to a counsellor for the first time can feel like going on a blind date. How do I know if I like this person? Can I trust them with my concerns? Will they be able to offer the kind of help I’m looking for?

This type of approach to a first session is actually very healthy and helpful. It’s good to ask questions about what kind of methods your therapist uses and to get a sense of their style. You can find out a lot from online therapist profiles, blogs, and websites before you book your first visit.

Once you’ve found a therapist you trust, that first appointment can seem daunting. Here are a few things you can likely expect from your first individual therapy session.

1)     Introductions—Sharing your name, asserting that you’ve self-screened for COVID-19

2)     Policy Review—Most therapists do a quick review of policies (these are on your intake form)—booking and cancellation fees, their lawful duty to report harm to self/others, confidentiality and so on. They may ask you to sign to affirm that you agree to these policies.

3)     Review posing concerns—Your therapist will ask what brought you here. This is your chance to briefly summarize your concerns, symptoms, etc. You don’t have to dive into all the details at this point, but it’s a chance to give your therapist a quick overview.

4)     Goals for therapy—Your therapist will ask you what your main goals are with these concerns. They can help you determine what you hope to achieve from your therapy sessions.

5)     Feedback—Your therapist will validate your concerns, offer hope, and suggest approaches that may be helpful in upcoming sessions.

6)     Take-away tools—Depending on your concerns and time constraints, your therapist may give you some immediate takeaway tools such as relaxation exercises, keeping a logbook or creating a safety plan.

7)     Wrap-up—You’ll book your next appointment, offer payment and be on your way.

Follow-Up Sessions

In your follow-up sessions you’ll have a chance to explore concerns at a deeper level. This is a slow and careful process, and your therapist will always give you the opportunity to hit the ‘pause’ or ‘stop’ button. They will only ask you to explore issues as you feel ready.

If you would like to find out more about our therapists, you can read practitioner profiles in our “About” section. You can book your first session online by clicking here  or by calling 705-300-0077.