What to Expect From Your First Therapy Session

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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.

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.

Therapy can seem mysterious until it doesn’t. Like many things in life, the first time can feel frightening, uncomfortable, and forced. That’s a small hurdle to trounce compared to the abundant benefits therapy has to offer.

If you’re ready to take the first step on your therapeutic journey, contact Dr. Ros & Associates today.