How to prepare for a therapy session and what to expect

Therapy sessions are, in some cases, an essential step on the path to mental health and personal growth. Whether you decide to seek professional help for depression, anxiety, stress or want to improve your personal life, your first therapy session can be a new and unfamiliar experience. Proper preparation and understanding of what to expect can help you eliminate initial nervousness and make the most of your first session.

How to prepare for a therapy session

Establish a clear reason why you want to have therapy

Before your first therapy session, take time to think about why you have decided to seek therapy. Focus on questions such as, "What is bothering me?", "What emotions or issues brought me to the therapist?" and "What would I like to achieve in therapy?" This will help you express your feelings better and give the therapist the information they need to help you best.

Prepare the questions

Feel free to prepare questions that interest you about therapy, whether they are about the therapeutic approach, the length and frequency of sessions, or the expected outcomes. Good communication with the therapist from the beginning ensures openness and trust.

Be open and honest

Although it may be uncomfortable initially, opening up to the therapist and sharing your feelings, thoughts, and concerns is essential. The more information you give the therapist about yourself, the better able they will be to help you. Remember that a therapy session is a safe and confidential space where no one can or will judge you.

Choose comfortable clothing

Feeling comfortable in a session will allow you to be more relaxed and focused. Therefore, choose clothes that you feel comfortable in.

What to expect during a therapy session

First meeting - getting to know each other

The first therapy session is usually focused on getting to know each other. The therapist will ask about your current difficulties, life and health history, and goals. This session can be more informative so that you and the therapist can better understand each other.

Creating a safe space

An essential part of any therapy session is creating a confidential and safe space where you can talk openly about your feelings and concerns. The therapist will often ask questions to understand how you are feeling and what is bothering you, but at the same time, will not force you to do anything. Everything will be at your pace.

Exploring your emotions and thoughts

During the session, you will explore your emotions, thoughts and patterns of behaviour with the therapist. The therapist may ask you questions that stimulate your thinking and help you become aware of things you may not know.

Individual approach

Each therapist has a specific approach, but therapy is always tailored to your needs and goals. The therapist may use different therapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), gestalt therapy, psychodynamic (depth) therapy or other approaches, whichever is most appropriate for you.

With this knowledge, you will find even your first session enjoyable. Feel free to make an appointment at our clinic to address your mental well-being together.