What to expect from your first counselling session?

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, especially if this is your first time and you’re not sure what will happen or what’s expected of you.

Many people worry about saying the “right” thing, feeling awkward, or not knowing where to begin. These concerns are completely normal, and you’re not alone in feeling this way.

This article explains what happens in a first counselling session, so you can feel a little more prepared and at ease before getting in touch.

Ahead of the first session....

Firstly, a little bit about what happens ahead of your first session. We will have had a 20 minute introductory phone call, zoom meeting or you may have popped into the Centre for a meeting. The idea behind this is for you have had the opportunity to meet me, to provide me with an idea of what you are looking for support with and for me to explain how I work and my process. This enables you to decide whether I am the right fit for you and for me to know I can support you. No counsellor should work with every issue. I typically support clients with anxiety, overthinking, anger and stress.

Once you have decided to book with me, I will send a follow up email including logistics such as parking and what to do when you arrive,

What typically happens in a first session

In a first session we'll usually talk about:

1. Your thoughts and feelings about starting counselling. Some people are nervous, not sure where to begin and not sure what to expect. Others have had counselling before and have a sense of what was helpful in sessions before.

2. What's been going on for you recently or what brings you here at this moment.

3. What you're hoping to get from counselling. It may be help with anger or anxiety.

4. Any questions or concerns you might have about the process

5. I'll also mention confidentiality and provide you with a copy of a contract to take away, Our discussion on confidentiality will provide you with confidence that at all times I protect your confidentiality and how ultimately the time you have here is yours to discuss what ever you want without judgement or criticism.

There’s no “right” way to do a first session. Some people come with lots to say, others take a bit of time to settle in. Both are completely fine.

If you've had counselling in the past, we'll discuss your previous experiences as well. This can help us identify what worked for you before and what didn't, so I can tailor my approach accordingly.

What you don't need to prepare

You don’t need to prepare anything in advance. You don’t need to know exactly what to say, and you don’t need to have everything worked out. The session is a space to begin where you are.

Practical Details

Sessions last 50 minutes and are confidential. We can talk about practicalities such as frequency of sessions and any questions you have.

As mentioned there's some paperwork to go over as well. We'll review the contract together to ensure that we're both on the same page about how we'll work together. And confidentiality is a top priority. Anything you share with me will be kept strictly confidential, except in rare circumstances where your safety or the safety of others may be at risk.

If you’re thinking about starting counselling in Bromley and would like to explore whether working together feels right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch for an initial, informal conversation.