We know starting therapy or coaching can feel a bit daunting, so here’s a friendly guide to help you understand what to expect from your first session with one of our practitioners.
Each practitioner will take a slightly different approach, however, most sessions will involve:
- Introductions: Your practitioner will introduce themselves, so you get to know them and how they work.
- Questions: They’ll ask a series of questions to understand what brought you to see them and what you’re looking for help with.
- Personal history: They might inquire about your background, relationships, and previous experiences with therapy or coaching.
- Goals: You’ll be asked what you hope to gain from your sessions, such as your goals or how you’d like life or work to look differently. (It’s helpful to think about this before your first session!)
- Practitioner’s approach: Your practitioner will explain their style or approach, what to expect from future sessions, confidentiality, and how session cancellations work.
- Preparation responses: If you completed any preparation responses, they may discuss these to better understand your issues.
- Contact details: Ensuring you have each other’s contact details.
- Consent: You may be asked to sign a consent form or therapy/coaching contract. In some regions or US states, completing an intake form may also be mandatory under local laws or regulations. If this applies, your practitioner or coach will inform you that the form must be completed before the session can proceed.
- Questions: An opportunity for you to ask any questions you have.
- Fit and support: Discussing whether you think you’re a good fit and if they’re best placed to help you. If not, they may suggest someone else who can.
A typical session is approximately 50 to 60 minutes long, and all sessions are conducted online via secure video call.
What to keep in mind
Different practitioners have different approaches, but generally, the first session is about getting to know each other and discussing how you might work together. Here are some key points:
- Some practitioners may be more direct with their questions, while others will give you more space to talk freely.
- Be as honest as you can, but remember you don’t have to discuss anything you’re not comfortable with.
- The first session is a chance to see if you want to work with the practitioner and if they feel they can help you. They might refer you to another practitioner if another approach could be more useful.
- If it’s a good fit, you can discuss the practicalities of therapy or coaching, such as session frequency and duration, and book your next session. You don’t need to decide immediately and can take time to think about it.
Questions to ask yourself
- Did I feel like I could talk to them honestly?
- Do I feel they will listen and not judge me?
- Do I feel safe with them?
It’s natural to have some difficult feelings during the first session, especially if you’ve never talked about these things before. Remember, it’s important to discuss these feelings with your practitioner. These feelings don’t mean therapy won’t be helpful, but if you don’t feel comfortable, it’s okay to consider a different therapist. The key is not to give up on therapy if the first fit isn’t right.