So, what happens in the first session of therapy?

I totally get it… If you’re anything like me, you need to know the complete in’s and out’s of something before you dive straight in. That’s cool. Complete respect. (Which is why I offer free 15-minute inquiry calls so people get a real feel for me, and can ask all of the questions.)

So, what actually happens in the first session of counselling?

Obviously, I can’t answer this for EVERY therapist, I can only tell you what I do.

The first session is very much a get to know you. This is when people start to unpack their story… although I find most people hold off on some of the big stuff until about session 3 or 4… Which is normal, and fine, because you need to work out if you can trust me and trust that I am able to hold that space for you.

You need to feel safe with me.

The feeling of safety is so so so important.

During this session I like to find out what some of your coping strategies are... What you do in times of stress.. What you lean on when things get tough.

There’s also some education around some healthy coping strategies that you can use, and try, and I like to dive in so that you can discover what they are for yourself.

If you are going to unpack some of the bigger things, it’s important you have some healthy coping strategies, to help regulate yourself when you need to.

Some common things I hear after that first session is… “Wow, that hour went by SOOO quickly!” And “I feel like a huge weight has lifted off my shoulders.”

Do you have any other questions about the first session? 💙