QUESTIONS?
Whether you’re curious about finding the right therapist, booking an appointment, or if you have additional questions, I am here to help.
What to Expect During Your First Therapy Session
The first time in therapy is different for everyone. Here are some tips to help prepare you.
November 13, 2023
Taking the first step to schedule a therapy appointment takes courage. Many seek therapy when their usual ways of coping with life’s challenges no longer work. Speaking with a trained professional to identify what’s working and what’s not can significantly benefit your overall health.
To get you ready, here are five things of what to expect during your first therapy session:
Initial paperwork
You will need to fill out some forms about yourself for the session. The information you share will help the therapist get to know you. If you don’t want to write things down, don’t worry. You can talk to your therapist about it in person.
Some of the forms you might see include:
- HIPPA forms
- Insurance information
- Medical history, including your current medications
- A questionnaire about your symptoms
- Record release form
- Therapist-patient services agreement
Introductions
During your first session, your therapist will introduce themselves. They will also:
- Discuss rules they have to follow, including confidentiality requirements
- Explain how the first session will go
- Save time at the end for questions
- Set a treatment goal
Interview questions
After the introduction, the therapist will ask questions to understand your situation better.
Questions they might ask include:
- Why are you starting therapy now?
- What was it like growing up for you?
- How was your family growing up?
- Tell me about your current support network, living situation and job.
- What’s going well in your life?
- What are you currently struggling with?
- How do you imagine your life improving in six months if things became simpler?
Keep in mind, that you don’t have to share everything in the first session. Share what feels comfortable for you. You’ll open up more as you get more comfortable with the therapist.
Schedule your next appointment
At the end of the session, you and your therapist will decide on treatment goals and how often you should attend therapy. This is crucial for creating a structured and effective path forward. It helps you address concerns, work towards positive outcomes, and ensure your therapy sessions are tailored to meet your unique needs. Knowing these things will create a more constructive and focused experience.
Trust your feelings
If you don’t feel comfortable with the therapist, it’s okay to try another one. Recognizing and honoring your own comfort and connection to the therapist is essential for a successful healing journey. This ensures your needs are met which helps create a more positive and rewards experience.
Remember, you are in charge of your healing journey!
Final thoughts
Making that first appointment can be daunting, but this is where your healing journey can begin. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed with day-to-day tasks, talking with a trained professional can help.
Take your time in selecting a therapist whom you feel comfortable with. You can research their background, read reviews, and have an initial consultation to see if there’s a good rapport. Feeling connected with your therapist can make the process less intimidating and can alleviate the intimidation factor, making it easier to open up and work through your challenges.
When you’re ready, reach out to begin your healing journey today! Call to schedule your free 15-minute consultation call.