What happens in a first session?

Meeting a therapist for the first time can feel scary, exciting, anxiety provoking, or all of these. However when you arrive it can help to remember that you are getting to know this person just as much as they are getting to know you & that the therapist is just a regular person like you!

At the counselling & psychotherapy practice Holborn & Clerkenwell London, your therapist's office will look a bit like a cozy & comfortable  living room. This first meeting is a chance to get clear on your goals & what you want to get out of therapy, as well as a chance to get to know the therapist. You will also become clearer about your therapists skills & personality, & a little about their way of thinking about what's troubling you.

What can I do to get the best out of therapy?

You may be asked to complete homework tasks or keeep a journal of your thoughts & feelings between sessions. This can help keep therapy on the key issues & help you to become more aware of what you are thinking & feeling.

But if you want to get the most out of your therapy investmemnt:

• come weekly and in attendance for the full session,
• be willing to take risks, be as open and honest as you can,
• be willing to be uncomfortable without getting overwhelmed,
• receive the support,
• work out any conflicts or hurts with your therapist rather than bailing out when things get tough; as those places are exactly where a lot of the big changes happen,
• do the experiments or homework you agree to do.

It’s an amazing step towards wellness to investigate if therapy can help you lead a healthier, happier & richer life.