What to expect in your first session
Booking your first counselling session can feel like a big step. You might be wondering what actually happens in the room, what you’re supposed to say, or whether you’ll be put on the spot. Here’s a straightforward outline of what to expect.
Before you arrive
You’ll usually receive some brief information about the practice, how to find the room (or the Zoom link, if you’re meeting online), and what to do if you need to cancel or reschedule. You don’t need to prepare a “script”—there’s no right or wrong way to use the time.
How the first session usually goes
The first session is often a mix of housekeeping and conversation. I’ll explain confidentiality, how sessions work (length, frequency, payment), and invite you to say a bit about what’s brought you in. You can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. Some people have a clear picture of what they want to work on; others have a general sense that something needs to change. Both are fine.
What you can ask
You’re welcome to ask anything—about how I work, what happens next, or what might be helpful for your situation. The first session is a chance to see whether this feels like a good fit. If you leave with a clearer sense of what counselling might offer and whether you’d like to continue, that’s a good outcome.