My first therapy session – what to expect?
What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Feeling Nervous? That’s Completely Normal
Starting therapy can feel like a big step. You might be nervous or unsure about what to expect. That’s okay. It’s completely natural to feel this way—after all, you’re preparing to talk about personal thoughts and emotions with someone new.
As your therapist, I’m here to support you with compassion and professionalism. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can speak freely and feel understood.
A Gentle Introduction to the Process
At the beginning of our session, I will walk you through what therapy is and how we’ll work together. This is your space, and everything we discuss remains confidential, within professional and legal limits.
Because privacy is essential, I recommend finding a quiet place where you can feel safe and uninterrupted—especially if our session is online. This helps you get the most out of our time together.
What Happens in the First Session?
During your first session, I’ll ask you a few questions to better understand:
- Your current concerns,
- Any relevant personal history,
- Your goals and expectations for therapy.
In some cases, you might also be asked to fill out brief forms related to your emotional and physical well-being. This helps us tailor the sessions to your needs from the beginning.
Keep in mind: Therapy is a journey, not a quick fix. It often takes a few sessions to fully understand your situation and find the most suitable approach.
You Can Ask Questions Too
This session isn’t just about me getting to know you—it’s also about you getting to know me. I invite you to ask any questions, such as:
- ✅ What type of therapy do you use?
- ✅ What will we focus on in sessions?
- ✅ How will we measure progress?
If at any point you feel unsure, you’re encouraged to speak up. I value transparency and collaboration, and your comfort is a priority.
Finalizing the Therapeutic Agreement
If you decide to move forward, we’ll sign a Therapist-Client Service Agreement. This is a simple document that explains:
- Your rights and responsibilities as a client,
- My ethical and professional duties as a therapist,
- Boundaries around confidentiality and support.
This agreement helps establish clarity and trust from the beginning of our work together
You’re Not Alone in This
Starting therapy is an act of courage and self-respect. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, curious, hopeful, or all of the above—know that you are not alone.
If you have any questions before or after your first session, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you every step of the way.
