If you have scheduled your first therapy appointment, chances are you have a lot going on. Whether this is your first appointment with a new therapist or your first time in therapy, many people feel overwhelmed by the process. Here are a few notes that might help you prepare for the appointment both mentally and emotionally. I hope this helps relieve some anxiety for you.
1 First appointments seldom feel the same as subsequent appointments.
Most therapists conduct what is known as an assessment in the first appointment. This process may start with a questionnaire that you complete prior to the appointment. The goal of this appointment is for the therapist to get a broad sense of how you are doing so they can make a decision about what kind of support will be best for you. Based on your answers they may provide you with supplemental referrals like psychiatry, group therapy or acupuncture. While it may feel like an interview, the goal is for your therapist to get to know your story so they can begin to empower you. If the focus of the session is not on you, it could be a red flag.
2 The first appointment is your chance to interview the therapist.
While it is normally not appropriate to ask questions about your therapist’s personal life, it is appropriate to ask them about professional topics. Some things client may want to ask about could be: professional training, specialties, philosophy about treatment, beliefs about diagnosis. In addition to asking questions you may want to check in with yourself about how comfortable you feel in this person’s presence. You may notice if you enjoy the environment of the office space. If the therapist is making you feel uncomfortable you have a few options. If you feel safe it is reasonable to let them know, and sometimes they may be able to make some adjustments. If you do not feel safe or addressed something and it still isn’t working you may want to start looking for someone else. It is also reasonable to ask the therapist for referrals if you wish. A seasoned therapist will not be offended that it did not work out and will understand that you needed something different.
3 Don’t expect immediate results.
Some people may feel better right after a session, but that is not always the case. In therapy we sometimes ask people to start facing the dark realities of life in order to heal and grow as people. That means that sometimes therapy is hard work. A good therapist should be able to meet you where you are at and provide a balance between supporting you and challenging you to grow. If you sometimes feel emotionally drained, or overwhelmed, or uncomfortable about what comes up that can be normal. It is good to let your therapist know how you feel your sessions are going especially if it feels like it is going too fast. A good therapist will check in with you every so often to get feedback from you. The process is different for everyone and progress it is not normally linear.
Therapy doesn’t have to always be deep and serious. Sometimes therapy can awake sense of playfulness and creativity. I hope your first therapy appointment goes well!
Kind Heart Counseling 