Whether you’ve had lots of therapy or zero, starting something new can stir up lots of feelings. Working with a new counsellor can bring up fear of getting it wrong, uncertainty or apprehension. You might also feel relief, excitement, anticipation or something else entirely. Whatever you’re feeling before you start is completely normal and there is no wrong way to do therapy, what’s important is that we find what works for you.

What to Expect

The first session is about getting to know each other and figuring out the best way to work together. Below I’ve provided an outline of the things we might talk about and ways you can prepare. There are also a couple of questions for you to ponder to help you get the most out of our time together.

Before we Meet

In the days leading up to your session you might find it useful to think about how you can use your time with me. Here are a few questions that might be helpful as journal prompts or just to reflect on at your own pace. They’re completely optional and there's no quiz at the end, promise!

1. What made you reach out now?
2. If you could wave a magic wand and solve your problem, what would be the first thing you’d notice that would be different?
3. If you could jump to the end of your therapeutic journey, what would you need to feel to know that therapy had been successful?
4. What have you already tried to improve your situation?
5. Are there any changes you want to make, but can’t or don’t know how to make?

 

When you arrive

• Online sessions – If we’re meeting online, there's a few things you can do to get set up before we meet. You can join the link a few minutes early, to check your camera, mic and speakers are all working well. Use this time to make sure your head and shoulders are clearly visible and that the lighting is good so I can see you clearly. It can be a good idea to have a drink and tissues to hand too.

 

• In Person Sessions – When you arrive take a seat in the waiting room, there is usually someone on the front desk if you need anything. I’ll come down to get you at the time of your session and there will be tissues and water available in the room. You’re welcome to bring your own drink too there are plenty of wonderful independent coffee shops in the Highstreet. There are toilets on both floors, please make sure you’re comfortable before we begin.

 

During the Session

Logistics and confidentiality

Usually at the start we’ll go over the logistics, like what to do if you’re running late, or need to reschedule. If we’re meeting online we’ll also cover what to do if technology fails and how we’ll finish the session.

I’ll tell you more about confidentiality and my specific thresholds as every practitioner will be slightly different. My personal level of risk is based on what I feel equipped to support you with and what I feel we can contain safely in our sessions.

History Taking

I'll ask you about what's been happening and how long its been going on for, we might look as far back as your childhood. Don't worry if you're not ready to go there, we'll work at your pace.

Goals

If you have a specific goal you'd like to reach, or a way you'd like to be or feel we'll talk about how we can help you move towards that. Sometimes people aren't quite sure what their aiming for, but they know they want things to change. That's ok too, we can figure out what progress looks like for you, together.

Before We End

Towards the end of our session, I’ll reflect back the key points we’ve covered and my thoughts about how I can support you. If any questions come up for you during the session we can make space for these before we end. Sometimes at the end of a session emotions can be high, I will make sure that we hold time for you to feel calm and safe again before we end our session.

I hope this has helped to reassure you a little, but if you do have any questions you're very welcome to get in touch!