Before Your Session
1. Set Your Intentions
Think about what you want to achieve in therapy:
- What issues or challenges are bringing you to therapy?
- What changes would you like to see in your life?
- What are your goals for treatment?
2. Prepare Questions
Write down questions you want to ask, such as:
- What is your approach to therapy?
- How long will treatment take?
- What should I expect in our sessions?
- How will we measure progress?
3. Gather Relevant Information
Consider preparing information about:
- • Your mental health history
- • Current medications
- • Previous therapy experiences
- • Family mental health history (if relevant)
What to Bring
Insurance card (if using insurance)
ID for verification
List of medications
Notes or journal entries
Questions you've prepared
Calendar for scheduling
During Your First Session
Intake Process: Your therapist will ask about your background, current concerns, and what brings you to therapy. This helps them understand your situation.
Assessment: They may ask about your symptoms, relationships, work, and daily life to get a complete picture.
Goal Setting: Together, you'll discuss what you hope to achieve and how therapy can help.
Treatment Plan: Your therapist may outline their approach and what future sessions will look like.
Tips for Success
Be honest and open
It's okay to feel nervous
You don't need to have everything figured out
Ask questions if something is unclear
Give yourself time to feel comfortable
Trust the process