What does your first therapy session with me look like?
Are you thinking about starting therapy, but feel uncertain about what that looks like? Perhaps you feel anxious about taking the first step, and fear of the unknown, even questioning if therapy is for you? Looking after your emotional well-being is as important as visiting the doctor if you are poorly. Let's explore what starting therapy looks like.
As a counsellor, I am genuine, warm, welcoming and very down to earth. I aim to work in a way that helps you to feel safe, comfortable and very relaxed. I encourage you to be open and honest; this will help you to work through your struggles, and this is where the healing happens.
We will begin with how the sessions work, what to expect from me as a counsellor, and discuss the counselling agreement in greater depth. As well as an opportunity for you to ask me any questions and begin getting to know each other.
I would have already sent out a questionnaire, and we will work through this. This helps me gain further understanding of your needs and what you are hoping to gain from our sessions, also helps me gain some insight into your world and the challenges you are facing.
Self-care is an essential part of good mental health. I will ask you to complete a self-care assessment in order to clarify how you take care of yourself. There are many factors to consider when thinking about ways to improve your mental health. This is a good place to start to understand you and the steps needed to aid your overall well-being.
This is the starting point of our journey together, and if we both feel we can work together, we can schedule our next session.
If you are reading this and considering starting therapy, please know you deserve to feel at peace and work towards a better understanding of who you truly are. I will be there to hold your hand and guide you with kindness, compassion and insight into your inner world. You do not need to do this alone.