In the first session, clients can expect a welcoming, supportive conversation focused on understanding what brought them to therapy and what they hope to get out of it. There’s no pressure to share everything at once; the goal is to go at a pace that feels comfortable.
We’ll talk about current concerns, relevant background, and any symptoms or stressors you’ve been experiencing. I’ll also ask questions to get a clearer picture of your strengths, supports, and what has or hasn’t helped in the past. This helps us begin shaping a direction for treatment that fits your needs.
Part of the first session will also include reviewing confidentiality, informed consent, and how therapy works so you know what to expect moving forward. You’ll have space to ask questions as well.
My focus is on creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can begin to feel heard and understood. By the end of the session, we’ll usually identify some initial goals and discuss a general plan for how we might move forward together.