You may feel anxious or uncomfortable in your first few sessions. It is a normal part of the process and will improve. Your therapist must collect information about your situation before they can start helping you. They will ask questions and take notes, which can feel monotonous.
You’ll Meet Your Therapist
Some therapists may call your first session a “taster” or a “consultation.” They will probably also ask you to fill out some paperwork. These questions help therapist Seattle determine whether they can benefit you, so honestly answering them is essential. It would help if you also asked your therapist about their cancellation policy. Once you’ve emailed your therapist some initial questions, they will probably schedule an introductory phone call. While you can email them any additional questions, a phone call will allow them to respond to your concerns and can play a significant role in helping you decide if this therapist is the right fit for you. They will also likely explain how their sessions work, what they hope to achieve by working with you, and what to expect in their office.
You’ll Discuss Your Goals
Therapy can take several sessions or weeks to years, depending on your issue and goals. In the first session, your therapist will work with you to establish a treatment plan and timeframe. They will likely ask you about your past and current coping strategies. They will also want to know why you have come into therapy, as this can help them understand your needs better. Speaking up is okay if you feel your therapist isn’t the right fit. After all, you are investing your time and money into this relationship, and finding someone to support you is essential.
It’s worth mentioning again that your therapist should be a member of one of the professional bodies listed on our helpful contacts page, and you can check their registration online. It should give you peace of mind that they meet specific standards for ethical practice. Moreover, your therapist should always be willing to listen and offer supportive feedback.
You’ll Learn More About Your Therapist
It’s important to remember that it takes time to get to know your therapist and for you to feel comfortable enough to open up about your struggles. It’s expected to be nervous or uncomfortable during this process. In addition to understanding your presenting concerns, the therapist will need to learn more about you and your history. It may include information about your family, relationships, past experiences, and coping skills. You’ll also want to discuss your needs and goals for therapy, as well as what you hope to accomplish in your sessions. Creating a list of topics you’d like to cover and bringing it to your first session can be helpful. It’s also important to understand that your therapist cannot solve your problems in just one or two sessions. Therapy is a process that requires patience and commitment. You’ll probably hear stories of people who “magically” gained a lot of insight during their sessions, but it usually took them years to get to that point.
You’ll Start Working Together
Your therapist will assess the issue you present during your initial session. They will likely ask you various questions about your symptoms, psychosocial history, and relationships. They will also discuss what they think your goals for therapy are. If you have any concerns or doubts about your therapist, this is the time to voice them. You should not feel stuck with a therapist you don’t click with or who you think isn’t good at their job. If you don’t feel a connection with your therapist, it’s okay to ask them to refer you to someone else.
While you may be nervous or anxious, it is essential to remember that this is a positive step on your journey toward healing and wellness. It can take a while before you start to see significant results, so try not to get discouraged if you don’t make significant progress in your first few sessions. Ultimately, the goal is to equip you with lifelong solutions, not quick fixes.
