What to Expect
Your first counseling session can be both daunting and liberating.
Here's what you can generally expect:
Initial Paperwork and Formalities: Before your first session , you'll be asked to complete some paperwork, which may include forms about your personal information, consent for treatment, and confidentiality agreements. This paperwork helps me to understand your background and any specific concerns you may have.
Establishing Rapport: I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable opening up. I will start by introducing myself, explaining my approach to counselling, and addressing any questions or concerns you might have.
Assessment and Goal Setting: I will ask you questions to better understand your reasons for seeking counselling, your current struggles, and your goals for therapy. This assessment gives me insight into your situation when tailoring our treatment plan to your specific needs.
Building Trust and Confidentiality: Confidentiality is crucial in counselling, i will explain the confidentiality policy and any limits to confidentiality. Knowing that what you share will be kept confidential can help you feel more at ease and allow an easy flow of information. We can discuss how my notes are stored and who can access them over time
Exploring Your Concerns: The bulk of the session will involve discussing the issues or challenges you're facing. I will ask questions to encourage you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in more depth. This exploration helps both you and I gain a better understanding of the underlying issues and potential solutions and avenues for exploration.
Educating on Therapy Process: I may provide information if needed about the therapeutic process, different counselling techniques or approaches I may use, and what you can expect in future sessions. Understanding how therapy works can help demystify the process and make you feel more comfortable.
Developing a Treatment Plan: Towards the end of the first or second session, you and I might collaborate to develop a treatment plan outlining your goals and the strategies or interventions that will be used to achieve them. This plan serves as a roadmap for your therapy journey and can be adjusted as needed.
Reflection and Next Steps: Before wrapping up, you'll have the opportunity to reflect on the session and discuss any insights or feelings that emerged. I may also provide recommendations for self-care or activities to work on between sessions.
Remember, the first counselling session is just the beginning of your therapeutic journey. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions, including relief, anxiety, or uncertainty. Over time, as you build trust and rapport with your counsellor, you'll likely feel more comfortable and empowered to address your concerns.