How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session
First and foremost, you don’t have to do anything before your first session. You’ve made the appointment. Now, all you really need to do is show up. Your therapist can guide you through everything else once you get here. Starting therapy is a big step. Congratulations on prioritizing your mental and emotional health in the new year. If you’re the kind of person who likes to be as prepared as possible for everything, I’m including some extra steps you can take to get ready for your first visit in this blog, but rest assured, if you’ve made your appointment, you’re all set.
Fill Out Forms
This one may sound a little silly, but if it’s possible, go ahead and fill out any new patient forms that are available before your first appointment. Filling out these forms in advance can often help you feel prepared for your visit, understand costs, and it may even be required by some offices. If you don’t fill out the forms in advance, some practices will make you fill them out during your first visit, so completing them early may save you time at your appointment.
Set Appropriate Expectations
Therapy can do a lot of good, but it also takes work. While you may feel a little better during and after you first visit, true progress and positive change takes time. Make sure you’re setting appropriate expectations for your first visits. Be honest with your therapist about what you hope to achieve, and make sure they feel ready and able to help you achieve your goals.
Be Aware of a Bad Connection
Even though it’s important to set appropriate expectations and give therapy sessions the time and effort they need for you to see results, you should also be aware and say something if you don’t feel a good connection developing with your therapist. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to switch therapists. Instead, let your counselor know how you’re feeling. This can help them to adjust their approach to something that better meets your needs, and if necessary, they may be able to recommend someone who is a better fit.
Take Some Time to Yourself Before Your First Visit
Going to your first therapy session can feel overwhelming or stressful. When you have a lot going on before your appointment, you may not be able to adequately prepare for your session. Set aside thirty minutes to an hour before your session just for you. Turn off your cellphone and go somewhere you feel calm and at peace. Sit with your thoughts and feelings. Don’t hold onto anything but take note of anything that comes up. This may help to further guide your session.
Be Comfortable
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Again, this one may sound a little silly, but it can really make a difference. The more comfortable you are during your visit, the easier it will be for you to relax and open up.
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask any questions that come up during your session. Your therapist will recommend certain steps or therapy approaches based on their training and experience, but you are the expert on you. If you have questions about their plans and anything else that comes up, ask them. You need to understand and be on board with your therapy plan in order for it to benefit you.
Treat Yourself with Kindness
Like I mentioned in the opening paragraph, your first therapy session is a big step. By taking it, you have asked a lot of yourself, and you’re showing up for yourself. That in and of itself deserves praise. The road ahead of you may not be an easy one, so treat yourself with kindness. Go out to eat at your favorite restaurant after your session. Take some time out to see a movie. Do something that will make you feel good. You deserve it.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to get started working with a therapist in New York or New Jersey, I’d love to hear from you. My name is Ashley Pichardo. I’m a licenses mental health counselor, and I’m accepting new clients in the new year. You can get started by calling (917) 522-1418, emailing contact@apichardotherapy.com, or completing my online scheduling request form.
