What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

So, you feel like you have a problem, and you call your friendly neighborhood psychotherapist (or go to a Community Mental Health Center). The therapist, usually a person with a master’s degree in social work, counseling, or psychology (PhD psychologists do psychological testing, IQ, and Personality; Psychiatrists, these days, merely prescribe medications for their patients and seldom do psychotherapy).

On the first day, you see your therapist. The initial encounter usually lasts about two hours, known as the intake session. During this session, the therapist asks you all kinds of questions to gather information about you and your current situation.

Getting to Know You

The intake session begins with the therapist asking for basic details such as your name, age, and place of birth. These questions help the therapist establish a foundation for understanding your background and personal history.

Next, the therapist may inquire about recent events in your life. This could include significant life changes, such as starting a new job, going through a breakup, or experiencing a loss. By understanding recent events, the therapist can gain insight into any potential triggers or stressors that may be contributing to your current situation.

Exploring Your Concerns

Once the therapist has gathered some initial information, they will start delving deeper into the specific concerns that led you to seek therapy. This is your opportunity to express your thoughts, feelings, and struggles in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

The therapist may ask open-ended questions to encourage you to share more about your experiences. They may inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing, how long they have been present, and how they are impacting your daily life. This helps the therapist gain a better understanding of the severity and duration of your concerns.

During this exploration phase, the therapist may also ask about any previous experiences with therapy or mental health treatment. Understanding your past experiences can provide valuable insight into what has worked or not worked for you in the past.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Based on the information gathered during the intake session, the therapist will begin to form an assessment and potentially provide a diagnosis. This involves analyzing your symptoms, patterns of behavior, and any relevant background information.

It's important to note that not all therapists provide diagnoses, and some may prefer to focus on understanding your concerns without labeling them. The decision to provide a diagnosis depends on the therapist's approach and the specific guidelines of their profession.

Setting Goals and Treatment Plan

Once the assessment is complete, the therapist will work with you to set goals for therapy and create a treatment plan. This involves collaboratively identifying what you hope to achieve through therapy and outlining the steps needed to reach those goals.

The treatment plan may include various therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored to your specific needs. This could involve cognitive-behavioral therapy, talk therapy, art therapy, or other evidence-based approaches.

Building Rapport and Establishing Trust

Throughout the intake session, the therapist's primary goal is to build rapport and establish trust with you. They want to create a safe and supportive space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and emotions.

Building a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial for the success of therapy. It allows you to feel heard, understood, and validated, which can enhance the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.

Final Thoughts

Attending your first therapy session can feel intimidating, but it's important to remember that the therapist is there to help and support you. The intake session serves as a foundation for the therapeutic journey, allowing the therapist to gather information, assess your concerns, and collaboratively create a treatment plan.

By being open and honest during the intake session, you can provide the therapist with the necessary information to guide your therapy effectively. Remember, therapy is a process, and it may take time to see significant progress. Be patient with yourself and trust in the therapeutic process.