Taking the first step towards seeking counseling is a positive way to get your life back on track. You may be apprehensive about your initial meeting with your therapist, which is understandable if you have not previously considered the counseling process. Fortunately, when it comes to your first session, knowing what to expect upon your meeting with your practitioner can ease your anxiety and allow you to be fully present.
Scheduling an Appointment
When scheduling a therapy appointment, it’s like visiting your local doctor. You may visit your therapist in a clinical practice or a home environment. Before seeing the practitioner, you will complete forms concerning any insurance and personal information before your session is to start.
Meeting Your Therapist
During the first visit, your therapist will explore personal details as well as reasons for seeking therapy and simply get to know you before the formal sessions begin. It is important for the practitioner to assess your thoughts, general behavior and your expectations for these therapies. This supports future therapeutic practices and helps the professional plan the direction of future counseling.
The first therapy session is not a formal counseling session. Visit your practitioner with realistic expectations. You will not receive much input on coping with your current difficulties or structured counseling initially. This process will occur in the sessions after the first visit.
Questions to Expect During Your First Meeting
Once you are in the therapist’s room or office, try to relax. Take deep breaths in and out and do not focus on what the right or expected answers should be to your practitioner’s questions. The purpose of therapy is to provide the tools, resources, and guidance you need to make constructive life decisions. It is also a process to assist in finding the treatment that best works for your symptoms and underlying conditions. When you are relaxed and answer naturally, this helps to facilitate the process.
During an initial consultation, your therapist will ask a series of questions. These include:
- Reasons for coming to therapy
- An exploration of your symptoms
- The issues or difficulties you are currently experiencing
- A brief overview of your family history, current family life, career and personal goals.
Every patient will receive a detailed breakdown about what to expect in future therapy sessions. The counselor will cover aspects such as confidentiality and the direction to take for future counseling sessions.
It is important that you feel comfortable during this process and take every step to ensure that your interests are met. While you cannot expect your problems to disappear after the initial practice, you can determine whether you feel comfortable enough to move forward.
Therapy is a highly beneficial and supportive tool. It can make a positive difference in your life if you are limited by personal problems or simply need direction. With the assistance of our therapists and counselors at Thriveworks McDonough, it is possible to achieve your goals. Embrace the process and be open to the possibilities that are introduced in your next therapy session. Call us to schedule an appointment at (678) 853-5849. We can’t wait to meet with you!
