How to prepare for starting therapy 

Preparing for your first counselling or psychotherapy session can help you feel more at ease and help you to make the most of the experience.

You may feel nervous or unsure of what to talk about. Or you might have lots to talk about – but you might not know where to start.

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Identify your goals: Think about what you hope to achieve from therapy. Do you want to address specific issues, gain new coping strategies, or simply have a space to explore and talk? How do you want to feel at the end of therapy?
  2. Gather relevant information: Consider any important personal history, such as past experiences with mental health, significant life events, or medical history that might be relevant to your current situation.
  3. Past therapy: Have you had therapy in the past? Was this good or bad, was it useful? Is there anything you would you like to be different?
  4. Reflect on your feelings: Spend some time thinking about your current emotional state. What feelings or thoughts are most prominent for you right now? Do you know where you feel these in your body?
  5. Write down questions: Make a list of questions you have for your therapist. These might include questions about their approach, confidentiality, or what to expect in future sessions.
  6. Consider practical details: Make sure you know the logistics of your appointment, such as the time, location (or online meeting details), and how to contact the therapist if needed. If it’s online will they send a link, if it’s face to face, are you clear on the directions and address?
  7. Relax and be open: Remember that the therapist is there to help you in a non-judgemental way. It’s normal to feel nervous, but try to be open and honest about your thoughts and feelings. If you have trouble articulating your feelings, your therapist will be able to help with that.
  8. Self-care beforehand: Engage in a relaxing activity before your session to help calm any nerves. This might include deep breathing, a walk, or listening to soothing music.

By taking these steps, you can hopefully enter your first therapy session with a clearer sense of purpose and a little bit more confidence.

Please contact me if you have any question or would like to book in a free 30 minute call.