Just the thought of going to therapy can feel a little intimidating for many people. It’s normal to be worried about what to say, how it will feel, or whether you’ll even know where to begin. These are all very common. For many people, starting is the most difficult part.
Knowing more about what to expect in your first session can help make taking the first step a little easier. Keep in mind that there are absolutely no expectations on your end. Your therapist is there to help you at your own pace.
Before The First Session Begins
Before your first session, there are usually a few forms and questionnaires you will have to fill out to become an established patient. This usually entails filling out some brief intake forms about your background, medical history, insurance, and so on. This will help your therapist get a better understanding of you before you meet. After that, there’s nothing more you really have to do other than show up.
What The First Session Usually Looks Like
The first session is much more relaxed than people expect. It’s more about getting familiar rather than diving deep immediately. Usually, your therapist will start the session by introducing themselves and explaining the basics of therapy, for example, how the sessions are structured, what confidentiality means, and how the therapy will take place in the future.
After that, the conversation will naturally evolve. While some people come in ready to talk right off the bat, others need more time to adjust before they can open up. Both are completely okay. Therapy is about engaging at your level.
Common Questions A Therapist May Ask
Your therapist may ask you some questions during your first visit to get to know you better. These may range from why you chose to start therapy to your general feelings lately, as well as anything specific that you may be going through right now. You may also talk about your background, personal relationships, or past experiences with mental health support.
It may feel a little odd answering all these questions, but it’s the best way for your therapist to get to know more about you and what you’re going through so they can best help you.
What You Can Share (And What You Don’t Need To Know Yet)
A lot of people worry about saying the “right” thing in therapy or not knowing what to say at all. The truth is, you don’t have to have everything figured out before you start, and you don’t need a perfectly explained story or a clear understanding of everything you’re feeling.
You can talk about whatever feels easiest to start with. There is absolutely no need to rush into things. You can take things one step at a time and open up gradually. If there are things you don’t want to share yet, that’s no problem. Therapy goes at your pace.
How To Prepare
Other than filling out intake forms, no other preparation is needed prior to your first session. But if it’s useful for you, some find it helpful to reflect on what’s been on their mind recently or what led them to book the appointment. However; even that isn’t necessary. Simply showing up is all you need to do.
It’s extremely common to feel nervous before your first therapy session, most people are. It can feel scary opening up to someone new and not knowing what to expect. All these feelings are valid, and your therapist understands that too. After you leave your first session, you might be surprised how good it can feel to talk with someone who’s there to listen and support you.
What Happens After The First Session
After your first session, your therapist may discuss the next steps for continuing therapy or planning general goals moving forward in therapy. You’ll also have time to reflect on how it felt, but you don’t have to have everything figured out right away.
Some people will feel relief immediately and can see themselves feeling comfortable enough to open up more in the future. While others may not know what to think quite yet. Both reactions are perfectly normal.
The first session is just an introduction. If the first session felt like a good starting point, then you can continue and schedule another session. If not, it’s okay to take your time to think about what feels right for you.
Learn More At Deep Centered Mental Health
You don’t have to have a clear plan to begin, you just need a willingness to start. Taking the first step can feel intimidating, but it’s often the start of something meaningful.
To lear more about the therapy services and/or to schedule a therapy appointment, you can Request An Appointment, Self-Schedule An Appointment, or call us at 214-949-1172 to explore different options and get matched with a Therapist that best fits your needs!
