What can I expect from my first time in counselling?

If this is your first time in counselling, congratulations! Recognizing the need for support and taking this step is significant, and it’s understandable if initiating it felt challenging—many people feel that way.

The first session is a bit different from future ones. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• A Welcoming Start: I, your counsellor, will aim to create a comfortable and non-judgmental space for you.
• Getting to Know Each Other: The main goal is for you and I to start getting to know one another. I will invite you to share what brought you to counselling and what you hope to gain. It will be like a continuation of our free consultation.
• Information Gathering:
  • You: You’ll have the chance to talk about your reasons for seeking counselling. You only need to share what you feel comfortable with, especially in this first meeting.
  • Counsellor: I will ask questions about your current concerns, perhaps some relevant background or history, and your goals for therapy. I will also discuss confidentiality (which is crucial and means what you say stays private, with some legal exceptions I will explain).
• It’s a Two-Way Street: This is also your opportunity to see if it feels like a good fit for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about my experience, approach, or anything else that’s on your mind about the process.
• No Pressure: You don’t need to have all the answers or tell your entire life story. It’s okay to be nervous, unsure, or to take your time. I completely understand this – it’s a natural part of the process of developing our professional relationship.
• Next Steps: Towards the end of the session, you might discuss if you feel like it’s a good fit to work together. If so, you might schedule your next appointment and perhaps briefly discuss what future sessions might focus on.

Overall, the first session is about establishing a connection, understanding your needs, discussing how counselling can help, and ensuring you feel safe and understood. It’s the beginning of a collaborative process.

If you would like a PDF handout with a more detailed description/information about what to expect when starting counselling, click here. Alternatively, there is a video version of this document here.