Wondering how to begin therapy? It can feel like a daunting process, but it’s my aim to make it as smooth a transition as possible.
What to expect in your first session
There are three keys aim of your first session of therapy: developing a sense of comfort and trust in your psychologist; exploring the reasons why you are seeking counselling, and discussing the changes you hope to make in your life. Establishing a good rapport with your psychologist from the beginning is particularly important because it will form the foundation for effective work.
It is 100% normal to feel nervous at the start! We will take things gently, at your pace.
Typically, the first session will feel different from subsequent sessions as there is a lot of information to cover. I tend ask more questions than I usually would in order to get an overview of what is going on in your life currently, what current or past issues have prompted you to seek help, what is your living situation (relationships, work, family etc), and your health history. I will also give you a general summary of what to expect from therapy, how it works, and answer any questions you may have. You may also be asked complete one or more questionnaires to help me better understand your concerns and what you are experiencing.
By the end of the first session, we usually will have:
Summarised the key points
Clarified some counselling goals to work on together
Outlined a plan for achieving these
Where appropriate, you may walk away with one or more strategies to start practicing at home. I believe that it is very important for you to have something tangible to take away so that you can start making practical changes in your life right from the first session. I may also provide you with some reading materials or recommend resources (e.g. mindfulness or relaxation apps), as well as suggest further referrals if necessary.
How long will I need counselling for? How often?
This will depend on a range of factors such as the nature and complexity of your concerns, your motivation to make changes outside of therapy, your access to financial resources and personal availability.
Some people only require short-term counselling (6-10 sessions) in order to achieve sustainable change in their lives. For people with more complex, long-standing issues, longer-term counselling and therapy may be required. Sometimes significant progress and positive change can even be made following 2-3 sessions, particularly if the presenting problems are highly specific and the client’s motivation to engage is high.
Sessions may occur on a weekly or fortnightly basis to begin with, and then taper out over time. We will work together to achieve your goals and regularly review how things are going, so that you get the most benefit out of counselling.
Help! I’m in crisis
If we are concerned about your risk of harm or safety, I will usually recommend that you commit to weekly sessions until you are feeling more safe and supported. I will make recommendations for appropriate referrals and strategies that provide immediate relief from the pain you are experiencing.
In specific situations, we will plan out a list of key support people, services, strategies and telephone counselling numbers to ensure that emergency support is accessible to you between our sessions.
One example of this type of plan can be accessed through the Beyond Blue website.
For more crisis services: