What to Expect in your First Therapy Session

mental healthStarting TherapyAnxiety supportTrauma TherapyTherapy for Anxiety
Written By Chelsea

  • The boring but necessary things!

I will go over the paperwork you filled out, informed consent, confidentiality, and all of the details that go into having sessions together. We will also go over session length and options, structure of sessions that will fit your needs, policies and procedures and your rights as a client. 

Tip: It's ok to ask questions, or come prepared with a few! This is your time and you deserve to feel informed and comfortable. 

  • Why you are coming to therapy and learning more about you

I might ask if you have been in therapy before and what your previous experience was like, what you feel would be beneficial to know or learn about yourself or for me to know, and what has been feeling heavy lately. I will ask about fun things too - support systems, what you like to do in your free time, things that bring you joy. It is important to me that I learn about you as a whole person - not just the things that are prompting you to come to therapy.

  • Exploring goals together

You may know exactly what you want to work on, or have a general idea. We can work together to develop goals of what you would like to achieve in therapy. It is my goal to make sure I'm helping you get the most out of our sessions together. Whether you want to reduce anxiety, find ways to alleviate stress and build work/life balance, improve your relationships, or just feel better in your day-to-day life, I will help you start identifying and building goals - no pressure or judgement with where you want to go.

  • Getting Comfortable 

Therapy with me is completely personalized to make sure you are getting what you need and desire out of sessions, which means sessions look different for everyone, however I keep my foundation rooted in our connection and therapeutic relationship. This means I will always show up authentically, and encourage a space where you feel safe to do so as well. You might want to laugh, cry, share funny stories… or messy ones. However you show up is valid and part of the experience.

You don't have to feel “ready” , you just have to be willing. I am here to support you through life's messier moments with curiosity and compassion. You might leave the first session feeling relief, or feel a little bit stirred up - both are normal. Starting therapy can be overwhelming and scary, especially if you have been holding things close to your heart and in your head alone for some time. It is my goal to make you feel supported and safe sharing those experiences, thoughts and emotions with another person. 

…Ready to get started? I offer a free 15 minute consultation to help you decide if we are a good fit. Click the button below to schedule a time! I look forward to meeting you!

Chelsea