![]() Of course you’re there to talk about important things, but how therapy works is much more about building a genuine relationship with a professional therapist, and much less about lying back and getting analyzed. It’s also important to know that you’re not going to dive into the deep end of the pool right away. ![]() And you get to decide if you want to take it further. A good professional therapist will make you feel safe, comfortable, and understood, and they will lead the conversation in a structured and appropriate way. You don’t need to know what you’re going to say before you get there. The goal is not to jump in and start talking about why you need therapy - the goal is to see how you feel with the prospective therapist, and make sure that you feel comfortable with them. It’s a high level, very basic conversation to start to get to know a prospective therapist. Truthfully, the first therapy appointment is easy. Like, what will you do? What are the unspoken norms in this situation? Do you just walk through the door, recline on a chaise lounge, and immediately start spilling your guts to a therapist? What should you say? Ultimately, it is from the acknowledgement, exploration and processing of these emotions that help you come closer to finding your authentic, happier and healthier self.For newcomers to therapy, the first therapy consultation can seem a bit daunting - especially if you don’t know what to expect. Just as is in life, therapy is a process and a journey. That said, it is completely normal to experience good emotions, bad ones, and conflicting ones, too. You are letting your therapist into your inner world so that they can help you, not so that they can point out your flaws and make you feel ashamed over your perceived shortcomings. You have taken a huge step agreeing to attend your first session – how your mental wellness journey progresses is up to you. Trust in yourself and the process, and understand that change takes time.Īllow yourself to be vulnerable. The average therapy course typically lasts about 3-4 months, according to the American Psychological Association. Painting a full, comprehensive picture will take some time. From here, they can begin painting a picture of your circumstances, goals, and areas in your life that you would like to see improvement in. This session is the first opportunity that your psychologist has to get to know you better. Finding clarity in this regard is part of what therapy can offer you. If you’re unsure about your goals, that’s okay, too. “I would like someone to help me process my trauma so that I can aim to live a life free of fear.” “I want to learn better coping mechanisms to deal with the stresses of my life.” “I want to learn how to set boundaries in my personal and professional relationships.” “I would like to eventually overcome my anxiety.” What do you want to achieve from attending therapy? Think about what your objectives are, and communicate these to your psychologist. Taking some time to do this allows you to organise your thoughts and helps make your session more productive. You can write about significant life events and how they have affected you, your current circumstances and coping mechanisms you employ at the moment. Write down what you hope to achieve, or questions you have regarding confidentiality, the process of therapy and your therapist’s counseling style. After a session, it is always important to reflect on what has been said to ensure you process and absorb the information imparted to you. Giving yourself some time before your session gives you the opportunity to collect your thoughts and clear your mind. Set time aside for self-reflection before and after your session. You are choosing to put yourself and your mental well-being first, and you understand that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength. First and foremost, give yourself a pat on the back for having the courage to seek professional help. Even so, there are proactive steps that you can take that will dually alleviate some of your nerves, but also help make the first session with your mental health professional, productive and insightful.īe proud of your decision. It’s understandable to feel a little nervous before your first session.
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