Preparing for the first counselling session

Preparing for the session

Although there is nothing explicit to prepare in advance of our first session, it can sometimes feel daunting.  I would recommend familiarising yourself with some of my blog posts if you're feeling worried.  Specifically, "Is online therapy right for me?" to ensure you feel comfortable with the setup for online counselling and "making the most of counselling".  Before dialling into our call, it's important to find a quiet space where you feel comfortable and won't be disturbed.  I'd also recommend having a drink nearby and possibly some tissues.

Discussing the boundaries of therapy

At the beginning of our first session together, I'll take you through my Counselling contract. This can sometimes feel quite formal and directive.  In contrast to a typical session, which will be centred on and led by you, this focuses on how we will work together and is an important part of the counselling process.  Our working contract helps to establish how we will work together, what you can expect from me, what I ask from you, how I will keep you and what you tell me safe, and when I might need to reach out for support.  It sets the boundaries for our working relationship going forward and should also provide you with comfort that I am working responsibly, ethically and safely, with your best interests at heart.  This part of our session allows you to ask any questions or raise any concerns you might have. 

Finding out more about your experiences

Depending on what was agreed during our consultation, the first session will last 50 or 75 minutes and will provide you with the opportunity to discuss what it is that has brought you to counselling.  The first session or two tend to be information-gathering sessions. These sessions are a mutual opportunity for us to get a better sense of working together.  I will explore a little more about what has brought you to seek therapy and we will work together to understand your current challenges and any past struggles you may have experienced. We'll also think about some of your support systems and what resources you have in place that have helped you in the past.

Discussing your goals for therapy

Counselling provides you with the gift of time and space to talk about yourself without fear of judgement.  My job is to support and encourage you to make some form of meaningful change.  The therapeutic space is about working in collaboration to achieve this.  That's why I'll also ask about what you're hoping to change or achieve from therapy.  For some, this might be coping with a recent life event they have been dealing with.  For others, it may be working through more deep-seated challenges.  Once we are clear on what we are working towards, I will make a note of these.  We will revisit these goals in our work together, periodically, to check on progress and ensure you are getting what you need from our sessions.

Agreeing on a way forward

Towards the end of our first session, we will discuss and agree on the schedule of sessions moving forward.  Therapy works best when there is a commitment to attending regular sessions, particularly in the early stages.  However, it is up to you what feels right and appropriate for you. And, of course, therapy can be expensive.  We will talk about how often it makes sense to meet and book in a block of sessions, which will be at the same time each week or fortnight. This slot will usually be kept for you until you decide that you no longer need or want to come.

The opportunity to change your mind

These initial sessions are a chance for us to explore how we might work together and to ensure you feel comfortable.  It is important for you to have some time to reflect after this initial one or two sessions.  If for whatever reason, it does not feel like the right fit for you, then there is no obligation to continue.  The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important elements of therapy and if it doesn’t feel right then we are unlikely to make any significant progress. 

Still have question? Please feel free to contact me at christine@thelosstherapist.co.uk