Hey friend,
Congratulations on taking the step to try therapy- seriously, that’s a big deal! So, what happens next? If you’re wondering what that very first session will be like, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions- nervous, uncertain, anxious, or even a little awkward.
That said, let’s take some of the mystery out of it together. Knowing what to expect can make things feel a lot more manageable. And just so you know, we’ll be using the terms therapy and counseling interchangeably—they both refer to the same process of getting support for your mental and emotional well-being.
Here’s what you can generally expect when you sit down for your first therapy session (whether it’s in person or virtual).
1. It’s all about getting to know you.
- This first session is a gentle introduction. Your therapist will probably ask about why you decided to come to therapy in addition to what you’re hoping to work towards. You don’t need to have the perfect words or explain everything right away – just show up as you are and be honest with your thoughts and feelings.
2. Your therapist will (likely) ask a few background questions.
- You might talk about things like your relationships, work, stress levels, past experiences, and anything else that helps your therapist understand your world and insight a little better. It’s like painting a fuller picture—you only share what feels okay simultaneously.
3. No pressure to spill it all.
- You don’t have to go into deep emotional stuff right away. Seriously. It’s okay to take your time. A good therapist will never rush you or push you to talk about things you’re not ready to share.
4. You can ask questions too.
- Curious about how therapy actually works? Or maybe you’re wondering what your therapist’s style is like? If so, don’t hesitate to ask questions! After all, therapy is a two-way relationship. It’s perfectly normal to feel curious, or even a little unsure initially. Since therapy is an investment of both your time and your money, it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident in your choice. That’s why finding the right therapist can be a bit like shoe shopping. In other words, it might take trying on a few pairs before you find the one that fits just right. Fortunately, many therapists offer free 10-15 minute consultations. This is a great opportunity to “interview” them and see if their style and approach align with what you’re looking for. Taking this small step upfront can help ensure a better fit moving forward.
5. The goal is comfort, not perfection.
- The first session isn’t about fixing everything all at once – it’s about getting started. More importantly, it’s about showing up, being consistent, and seeing if this feels like a good fit for you. Think of it as planting a seed. You may not see huge changes right away, but over time, that seed begins to grow. As the process unfolds, you’ll build a foundation for the real work ahead. Of course, healing isn’t a straight path. It can feel more like a rollercoaster- sometimes smooth, other times a little bumpy or uncomfortable. But every twist and turn is part of the journey, and you’re not alone in it.
Overall?
Therapy doesn’t have to be scary. It can actually feel like a relief to finally have space for you- your thoughts, your story, your healing.
So if you’ve been considering it, take the first step. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start. I’ll leave you with a cozy picture of what The Inner Bloom Room looks like on the inside!
With you,
Leah
Let’s grow through what we go through – together.
