What to Expect During Your First Therapy Session

Going to your first therapy appointment can feel daunting. Many people have questions and concerns about what the initial session entails. Understanding what to expect can help ease your anxiety and help you prepare for the experience. This blog post will walk you through the key aspects of your first therapy appointment, from booking to your session's conclusion.

Appointment Booking

The first step towards therapy is scheduling an appointment. You may wonder how to find the right therapist. Start by researching different professionals in your area. Please ensure they have adequate qualifications. For example therapists who work for creatives in Mind are BABCP accredited or HCPC registered. This means that these governing bodies have checked their qualifications. You may also want to look if what the therapist specialises in fits with you. This can help you narrow down your options based on your specific needs.

When you have chosen a therapist, reaching out to them may seem daunting. It is usually a straightforward process. You can often contact them via phone, email, or an online form. During this communication, provide some basic information. This includes your name, contact details, and a brief description of your reason for seeking therapy.

Here at Creatives in Mind you can have a free 15 minute telephone call with a therapist prior to booking your first appointment. This allows you to see if you and the therapist are a good fit and gives you a chance to see if they can support you with your main aims for therapy prior to committing to an appointment with a therapist.

What Happens in Your First Session?

Your first therapy session is likely to be an introductory meeting. The therapist will generally start by asking you about yourself and your reasons for seeking therapy. You may discuss your personal history, current life circumstances, and any mental health challenges you face. This will help the therapist understand your situation and how best to support you.

Most therapists follow a conversational approach, making the process feel less like an interrogation and more like a friendly discussion. Don't hesitate to express your thoughts and feelings openly, including any doubts that therapy may work. The therapist will be used to people having doubts that therapy will work and it can be useful to talk through. Remember, the purpose of therapy is to create a safe space for you to explore your emotions and challenges.

Is Remote/ Online Therapy Effective?

Yes, remote therapy can be effective. Studies have shown that remote therapy can be just as beneficial as in-person sessions for many individuals. For example see this study that looked at the effectiveness of online therapy in two NHS talking therapy services in London. One benefit is convenience; you can speak with your therapist from the comfort of your home.

Additionally, remote therapy can help people who may find it challenging to attend in-person sessions due to anxiety, health issues, or distance. Many clients report feeling just as connected and supported through phone sessions as they do in person. However, the effectiveness of therapy ultimately depends on the individual and the therapeutic relationship. Remote therapy can also give you access to therapists who have a specialism in what you want to work on but aren't local to you.

What Should You Bring?

For your first session, it's essential to come prepared. While you typically do not need to bring anything specific, having a few items can be helpful:

1. Notes: Write down any key points you want to discuss, such as your goals and any questions for your therapist. This is to ensure you gain the answer you wanted from your first appointment. An hour goes quickly and this helps us to ensure we asked everything we wanted to.

2. Previous Records: If you are transitioning from another therapist, it may be valuable to share previous evaluations or relevant medical records.

   
   

Being prepared ensures you make the most of your time and allows for a more productive discussion.

A notepad and pen ready for writing notes

What to Expect Emotionally

It is completely normal to feel nervous or anxious before your first therapy session. Many people worry about how they'll be perceived or whether they will share their feelings adequately. It's essential to remember that therapists are trained to create a non-judgmental environment. It's alright to take your time to open up, and your therapist is there to guide you through the process. You are able to share as much or as little as you likr.

You may experience a wide range of emotions during your session, including relief, sadness, or even anger. This is part of the therapeutic journey. You are uncovering feelings that may have been buried for a long time, and that's a significant step towards healing. It is normal for the first few sessions to bring up difficult emotions as you may be talking about something in your life that is not quite how you would like it to be. After the therapist learns about those experiences you can work through them together and the emotions usually lessen as you do so.

Building a Therapeutic Relationship

Establishing a good rapport with your therapist is crucial for effective therapy. Your first session will play a role in building this connection. After sharing your story, your therapist will suggest potential paths for improving your mental health.

As you continue attending sessions, you will get to know your therapist better, and they will become more familiar with your unique challenges. Open communication is key. Don't hesitate to express how you're feeling about the therapy process, your thoughts on the sessions, or any discomfort you may have.

Next Steps After the Session

Once your first session is concluded, you might feel a mix of emotions. Some people feel lighter and relieved, while others may feel a tinge of sadness. Both reactions are perfectly normal. After your initial appointment, your therapist will likely discuss next steps. This may include a proposed treatment plan, setting goals for therapy, and scheduling future sessions.

Be sure to voice any concerns or questions. If you're unsure about the way forward, your therapist can make necessary adjustments based on your feedback. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process.

Final Thoughts on Your Therapy Journey

Embarking on your therapy journey can be both exciting and daunting. Understanding what to expect during your first appointment can greatly enhance the experience and set a positive tone moving forward. From booking your appointment to expressing your emotions, every step is important.

Therapy is a safe space to explore your feelings, gain insights, and work through life’s challenges. By preparing adequately and keeping an open mind, you are already taking the first steps towards healing. If you have any doubts or need further assistance, feel free to reach out for a free 15 minute phone call to clarify any uncertainties you might have.

Take a deep breath, step forward, and embrace this transformative journey toward emotional well-being.