We often talk about what to expect in your first therapy session, but not as much about how to prepare. Taking a little time beforehand can help you get the most out of your session.
After speaking with our team of psychologists, they shared several tips they believe are most helpful for new clients attending their first session. They recommend the following: Do these things and you will well and truly be READY!
1. Complete your paperwork
It may not be the most exciting part, but making sure your documents and intake forms are completed ahead of time allows us to make the most of your session together with your psychologist. If possible try and complete your paperwork before the day of your appointment so that you can spend the minutes beforehand, preparing your mind for what you would like to bring into the session. We also recommend avoiding doom scrolling before your appointment!
2. Think about your goals
Consider what you’d like to get out of therapy. Is there something specific you want to explore?
– If your current challenges were resolved, what might your life look like? How would you like to feel, think, or behave?
– What prompted you to start therapy and why now?
It can be helpful to write this down—whether in a notebook or your phone.
Think about what type of therapist YOU would work well with, for example, -Are they kind? Direct? Structured in their sessions or go with the flow? Practical? Patient?
3. Allow time to reflect afterwards
If possible, give yourself some space after your session to process what came up. This might mean scheduling some quiet time before returning to work or social events that day.
4. Be open with feedback
Our psychologists highly value feedback informed treatment and it is absolutely appropriate for you to let your psychologist know what is and isn’t working for you and if you would like to try a different approach.
Remember—this is your session. Our psychologists won’t take offence and honest feedback helps us tailor therapy to suit you.
