What Happens in the First Session
The first therapy session is typically an intake or assessment session. Your therapist will:
- Ask about what brought you to therapy
- Learn about your background and history
- Discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve
- Explain their approach and how therapy works
- Go over practical matters (scheduling, fees, confidentiality)
- Answer any questions you have
- Begin building rapport and trust
How to Prepare
Think About Your Goals
Consider what you want to achieve in therapy and what brought you here.
Write Down Key Points
Note important events, symptoms, or concerns you want to discuss.
Prepare Questions
Write down questions about the therapist's approach, experience, or process.
Bring Necessary Information
Insurance card, ID, payment method, and any relevant medical records.
Set Realistic Expectations
Remember this is just the first session - you don't need to share everything immediately.
Questions You Might Be Asked
Your therapist may ask about:
- •What brings you to therapy?
- •What are your main concerns or symptoms?
- •How long have you been experiencing these issues?
- •Have you tried therapy before?
- •What are your goals for therapy?
- •Family history and background
- •Current relationships and support system
- •Medical history and medications
- •Substance use or history
- •Any thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Questions to Ask Your Therapist
- What is your approach to therapy?
- What experience do you have with my concerns?
- How long do you typically work with clients?
- What should I expect from our sessions?
- How do you measure progress?
- What happens if I feel we're not a good fit?
- How do you handle emergencies or crises?
- What are your fees and payment policies?
Remember
It's normal to feel nervous before your first session. Your therapist is there to help, not judge. You don't need to share everything in the first session - take your time and build trust gradually.