First Session of Therapy: What to Expect
Posted on September 6th, 2016
The first session of therapy can be an nerve racking and anxiety provoking situation. Knowing what to expect from your first session will help you feel more relaxed.
In this first session of therapy the psychologist will ask questions to gain an understanding of your ‘story’ and experience so that they can create a treatment plan that is customised to suit your needs.
Questions your therapist might ask in your first session of therapy may include:
- What brings you to therapy? Is there are particular issue that led you to seek support. For example, is it an issue at work or home? What led up to this being an issue?
- They will also ask about any current symptoms (e.g mood, anxiety, worry, anger, sleep, problems with memory or concentration etc.).
- They will ask questions about your personal history and your current situation. Including education, employment, and any health conditions,
- The therapist will ask about your family and your relationships (including friendships) in an effort to gauge how much social support you have.
- The psychologist will also ask about alcohol and drug use, now or in the past.
- Your psychologist will also do a risk assessment for suicide or self-harm. This is standard at every first session.
Get the most out of your first session of therapy
Therapy is an active process that is a collaborative approach. This means the therapist and you work together as a team. Things that will help you get the most out of your first session include:
Be open and honest.
Psychologists are not psychics or mind readers. We are relying on the information you give us. However, in saying that we will prompt you and ask questions to help you open up.
Be prepared.
Prior to the session think about what the issue is or ‘what’s wrong’. Think about how this makes you feel. Don’t be afraid to bring notes or a list. Many people will feel a bit overwhelmed when they arrive and cannot remember the points they wanted to discuss.
Be Involved and Ask Questions.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s essential that therapy is about you and what you need. If you are unclear do not hesitate to ask your psychologist for clarification or to repeat anything you are not sure of.
Express your Feelings.
The first session can be a bit overwhelming and your mind may be racing. Share your feelings with your psychologist. This will be helpful for you and will be valuable in allowing your therapist to understand your experience better.
Be Realistic
Therapy is a process and not something you can achieve in one session. You need to be ready to work in therapy; it is not just talking, it is an active process. The relationship you will develop with your psychologist will help you achieve the results you are looking for.
Written by Judy Travis
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