What to Expect From Your First Therapy Session
Many people feel anxious leading up to their first therapy session, whether it’s their first time attending therapy or their first time with a new therapist. This is normal! Here’s some tips on what to expect from an initial therapy session, which might help relieve some of that anxiety.
Paperwork- You will be asked to complete paperwork prior to your appointment. This paperwork will include information similar to a doctor’s appointment, with your medical history, current work and school information, significant relationships, and current issues. It may also include insurance information and payment information.
There will likely be a document known as “informed consent” which describes what to expect from the therapeutic process and provides details on policies. It may be several pages long, but it is highly recommended that you read this document thoroughly as it will be important during the time you work with your therapist.
You may have to complete your paperwork in-person or online. If a therapist requests that you arrive to your appointment early to complete paperwork, then it is encouraged to do so or your appointment may be cut short. (For my practice, all paperwork is completed online within 48 hours of making your initial appointment.)
History- During the first session, your therapist will ask you about yourself and your history, which may include questions about your family, relationships, job, education, alcohol and drug use, sexual identity and/or preferences, spiritual and/or religious beliefs, gender, cultural identity, medical history, trauma, and current stressors. This is a “getting to know you” session, as it is important for your therapist to be well-informed about the many things that make you who you are.
Current Issues- You will be asked to describe what brought you to therapy. What do you feel is wrong in your life? You may be asked about certain symptoms, feelings, and stressors. An assessment or questionnaire may be completed.
Goals- Your new therapist might ask you about your goals. What do you hope to get out of your time in therapy? What needs to change in your life to increase satisfaction? Having an idea of your goals prior to your session can be a good way to prepare for the session so you can let the therapist know what you’re looking for.
Other important tips for beginning therapy:
What should you NOT expect? Don’t expect to have your problems solved with one visit! Therapy is a process and typically requires multiple visits to provide support and implement new skills.
Finding a therapist and starting therapy can be challenging. Sometimes you have to try more than one therapist to find the right fit. But don’t give up! Your mental health and well-being are worth the effort.
Verify your insurance benefits before you see your new therapist! Even if your therapist verifies benefits for you, it is important for you to have a complete understanding of your mental health benefits. You may need a prior authorization or a referral from your primary care physician. Things like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles will impact the cost of your care.
Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the process of therapy and what you can expect from future sessions.
