I've Never Been to Counseling, What Can I Expect?

Hey Everyone,

If you have never attended a counseling session, this article is for you! I will be discussing what to expect when you come to your first counseling appointment. Many people believe that reaching out to schedule a counseling appointment is the hardest step, yes, it can definitely be challenging! I have noticed that most clients tend to me more nervous for the first session. This is extremely common. Let's pause and think about trying anything new, the first time can seem strange, unnatural and a little scary, and the same is true when going to counseling that first time.

If choosing to work with me for therapy, here is what you can expect.

1. Prior to the first session, I will send out an email with electronic paperwork that will need to be completed prior to the first session. This paperwork can take 5-15 minutes to complete. It is self- explanatory and will walk you through step by step.

2. 48 hours before your scheduled appointment, clients will receive a text and an email reminder about their upcoming appointment. This reminder will have both the date and time of the appointment.

3. Day of the appointment. You will see my office sign at the front of the building. It will have my name along with 2 other clinician names. As you enter into my office, you may notice all office doors are shut, and sounds machines are on. I do not have a secretary to greet you. Unless you are my first client of the day, I am most likely finishing up a session. Therefore, have a seat in the waiting room and I will be out to get you when I am ready to start our session. You may notice other people in the waiting room. There are 3 counselors working in my office building, they are most likely waiting for their appointment with a different counselor.

4. When I greet you in the waiting room we will enter into my office where our session will be held. Sessions last between 45-60 minutes. There is no assigned seating in my office, therefore I ask you to sit where you feel comfortable. Many people think I have a "therapy chair." Not true, I sit wherever! I actually prefer switching it up every now and then!

5. The first session is heavy with me reviewing topics about confidentiality, policy's, insurance questions, and norms of therapy. This is my least favorite part, as it can feel a little more formal and less casual. I promise only the first session is structured in this manner.

6. What to bring to the first session: Insurance card, and form of payment. You may have already provided this information in the email you received prior to the appointment. If so, no need to bring to session. As long as I have it either electronically or in person is all that matters.

7. I will take the lead during the first session, so no need to worry about what to say. As we have more sessions and begin to feel comfortable with each other you will take more of the lead.

8. As our session winds down, I will ask for feedback on the session. If you felt comfortable and would like to continue therapy, we will schedule for our next appointment before you leave.

   
   

THAT'S A WRAP! You did it! You attended your first counseling session! Way to go! If the fear of the unknown is keeping you from attending therapy, please do not let this be a barrier! I am here to make this process go as smooth as possible for you!

Should you have any further questions about what to expect in the first session, please do not hesitate to reach out to me via my website.

I look forward to meeting with you!

Olivia