Therapy

7 min read

Starting Therapy: What to Expect

Your first therapy session is a conversation, not a test. Learn what you may be asked, what you can ask in return and how to decide whether the fit feels right.

Reaching out to a therapist can take courage. It is completely normal to feel unsure about what will happen once you are in the room or on the call.

What the first session covers

Your therapist will usually ask what has brought you to therapy, what you would like to be different and a little about your background. You decide how much to share. There is no right way to tell your story.

Questions you can ask

You are welcome to ask how your therapist works, what a typical session looks like, how progress is reviewed and how confidentiality works. Good therapy is collaborative, and that starts with understanding the process.

Finding the right fit

The relationship with your therapist matters. After a few sessions, notice whether you feel heard and respected. If something does not feel right, it is okay to say so, and it is okay to look for a different fit.

You are allowed to take your time deciding what feels right.

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