What to Expect for Your First Therapy Session
Going to therapy for the first time can be an intimidating experience. You may not know what to expect, or you may feel nervous or vulnerable about opening up to a stranger. However, therapy can also be a very rewarding and transformative experience, helping you to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve greater wellbeing. Here's what you can expect for your first therapy session:
Introductions and paperwork: Your therapist will likely begin by introducing themselves and explaining their approach to therapy. They may also go over some paperwork with you, such as consent forms, confidentiality agreements, and intake questionnaires. This paperwork helps your therapist get a better understanding of your background, concerns, and goals, and allows them to tailor your treatment to your unique needs.
Discussing your concerns: Once the paperwork is out of the way, your therapist will likely ask you to talk about the concerns that brought you to therapy. They may ask open-ended questions to help you clarify your thoughts and feelings, or they may ask more specific questions to get a better sense of your symptoms and experiences. It's okay if you don't have all the answers or if you're not sure what to say – your therapist is there to help guide you through the process.
Setting goals and expectations: After discussing your concerns, your therapist will work with you to set some goals and expectations for your treatment. This may include discussing how often you will meet, what types of therapy you will engage in, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Setting clear goals and expectations can help you stay motivated and focused on your treatment.
Engaging in therapy: Depending on your concerns and goals, your therapist may engage in a variety of therapeutic techniques and approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, or psychodynamic therapy. Your therapist may ask you to engage in certain exercises or activities outside of therapy sessions, or they may provide you with resources such as books or apps to supplement your treatment. It's important to be open and honest with your therapist throughout the therapy process, as this can help you get the most out of your treatment.
Reflecting on your experience: At the end of your first session, your therapist will likely ask you to reflect on your experience and share any feedback or concerns you may have. This is a good opportunity to ask questions or clarify anything that you may not have fully understood. Remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist is there to support you and help you achieve your goals.
While therapy can be a challenging and emotional process, it can also be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience. By understanding what to expect for your first therapy session, you can begin your treatment journey with confidence and clarity.