Therapy is to help you. Here are some tools to not worry.
The first therapy session, also known as the intake session, is typically focused on gathering information and establishing a foundation for the therapeutic relationship. If there is a severe problem that needs tackled it will be addressed if brought forward but that is under your control. Mostly this first session is about instigating a relationship and getting to know the basics about each other. Unlike typical doctor appointments these aren’t immediate cures that the first session can cure. Expect several sessions for changes to occur. This first session of therapy is more to establish a relationship between you and the therapist. You can also determine if you like them.
Here are some common aspects of what happens during the first therapy session, please note these things will not happen in order or as a formula. It’s a very intimate moment and is woven into you and your needs:
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, but been to therapy off and on. These are my experiences. Your session may vary.
Paperwork
The therapist may ask you to fill out some forms, including consent forms, client information, and possibly questionnaires or assessments in the first therapy session. If it’s in person, plan to arrive 15 min early just for this sort of thing. If it’s an online therapy session this has probably already been done after signing up.
Introductions
The therapist will introduce themselves, explain their approach to therapy, and discuss confidentiality and the limits of confidentiality. This will generally be quick and weaved into the first session. You should feel confident in the therapist’s ability to assist as they discuss.
Background Information
You will be asked about your personal and family history, current concerns, symptoms, and any relevant medical or mental health history in the first therapy session. Please note it is relevant to discuss your mental health history and immediate family’s history. One of my immediate family members was diagnosed with Bi-Polar. I was not. This is extremely relevant when assessing me because I could be on the scale of the disorder with my depression; not high enough to be diagnosed with it, but some symptoms could be tangible.
Goal Setting for Future Therapy Sessions
The therapist will work with you to identify your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve. This wasn’t one I was expecting. I want to be better. Period. What is better to you? This question is more challenging than what I expected in my first therapy session with my latest practitioner. Is getting better completely changing the internal monologue or is it knowing how to navigate when the internal monologue is throwing crap at you? It’s variable per person.
Assessment for Future Therapy Sessions
The therapist may use various assessment tools or questionnaires to gather additional information about your symptoms, strengths, and challenges. Do not expect a 100% conclusion to come to fruition after the first session. It is very common this occurs over multiple sessions. Just expect it to get started or the tools to be handed out.
Therapeutic Alliance
Building trust and rapport is crucial in therapy. It is very common for those coming into their first therapy session to have their biggest struggles and traumas shoved into a box and kicked into the oblivion of the mind never to be discussed or shared. But you know, you know that box is there. It’s a struggle to acknowledge it. The therapist will aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to share your concerns. You don’t have to unpack that box the first day. It’s okay that it takes time.
Timeframe and Expectation for Each Therapy Session
The therapist will discuss the frequency and duration of therapy sessions, as well as any other expectations or guidelines. Some sessions are weekly. Some are bi-weekly or monthly. It’s what can be afforded financially and time wise for the individual.
It’s important to note that the exact structure and content of the first therapy session can vary depending on the therapist’s approach and the client’s needs. Remember: The whole point of these sessions are to help you. Not attack you.
I’m proud of you for taking the step to go to therapy. It’s not easy.
You are the most in control of your life. Take the reigns.
-Rachel McG
