What to Expect From Your First Therapy Session

Going to your first therapy session can be intimidating. In some ways, it can almost feel like a sort of interview. In some ways, it is.

Any first session with a therapist is about getting to know each other, learning about your history, and experiencing the type of connection you have. Studies actually show that therapy works better when there is an authentic and open relationship between therapist and client, thus making the therapeutic rapport significantly important.

Psychotherapy is, by design, a unique relationship. A relationship that allows the client to open up, delve into past and present experiences, and to have the opportunity for healing and growth.

If you’re considering psychotherapy for the first time, the process can feel a little mysterious. My aim is to demystify it a bit.

How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session

Before your first therapy session, it’s helpful to come up with some general questions in mind. Your therapist will likely answer most of the basics before you have to ask. Still, before you leave your first session you can generally expect know the answer to questions such as:

How often are we meeting?
How many sessions will my therapy last?
What is the patient confidentiality policy?
What is the structure of each therapy session?
What should I do in between sessions?
How will I know that I’m making progress?

How to Get the Most Out of Therapy

Having a list of first therapy session questions will have you well on your way towards getting the most out of therapy. Even so, there are some broad guidelines to follow for every therapy session.

Try not to hide aspects of your personality
Remain open to growth
Give voice to anything that feels uncomfortable or “off”
Understand that therapy is a process and may take a little time

One of the aims of therapy is to provide you with the opportunity to let parts of your personality and self that you might usually be hesitant to show or discuss come into the light. Engaging in therapy in this way can be intense at times, but ultimately, it can be an incredibly freeing and reparative experience.

Therapeutic conversations are solely focused on the client and although this can feel strange to talk about yourself for an entire hour, keep in mind that this is how the unique process of therapy is allowed to unfold. Therapy is a chance to reverse our preconceived or programmed social rules for an hour and work to grow and change.

Although therapy can be utilized as a time to blow off steam and air your grievances, a good therapist will also take this opportunity to help direct you to look deeper into the matter at times.

What Will Your First Therapy Session Like?

In your first therapy session, you can expect your counselor to do a bit more of the talking than they might normally engage in. They may educate themselves more about you, explore your experience in the room, and ask you questions about your present concerns and symptoms.

It can be perfectly normal to feel a bit awkward during the first session, hopefully your therapist can make your first session feel a bit more at ease and comfortable.

Additionally, the first session can be an opportunity to discuss any questions you have and a chance for you to get more clarity on:

Your goals
How often you might meet
What progress may look like
A rough time-line for treatment
A general therapeutic assessment
Therapeutic techniques

Statement of Purpose

To serve our clients with dignity and respect, while offering a multi-lensed approach to the practice of psychotherapy. Our mission includes: Prioritizing the emotional needs of our clients, an overall reduction in client suffering, and supporting sustainable growth for the clients we serve.

"In 2017 my aim was to create a therapy practice that values intellect, emotion, and growth; while delivering a service to my clients that is tangible and practical."

To serve as a springboard for clinicians working toward their advanced licensure. To offer an all-encompassing and supportive private practice environment, where practitioners can utilize their strengths, clinically mature, and establish themselves as professionals within our community.

In 2017 my aim was to create a therapy practice that values intellect, emotion, and growth; while delivering a service to my clients that is tangible and practical.

In the years since my practice was first established, I’ve assisted people with accessing their own strengths, increasing their emotional capacity, and deepening their level of intimacy. I offer acute observation, supportive listening, and a delicate push toward growth for my clients. Additionally, I have brought on skilled associates to help offer a broader scope of services, greater access to care, and increase our areas of specialization.

Dr. Ros & Associates
Therapy For Adults, Adolescents & Couples

Dr. Ros & Associates
Therapy For Adults, Adolescents & Couples

What to Expect From Your First Therapy Session

How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session

How to Get the Most Out of Therapy

What Will Your First Therapy Session Like?

The Bottom Line

Consultation & Supervision for Mental Health Professionals

Statement of Purpose

Dr. Ros