I am often asked by people considering Therapy, "do you think therapy would help me?" and "what happens in the first therapy session?"... So, I thought I would try to answer these questions.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to sit with a Counsellor / Psychotherapist and explore your thoughts and feelings. The Therapist, unlike family and friends, is impartial and will therefore not be emotionally involved with you or have an opinion on your circumstances or concerns, but listen and reflect without passing judgement.
People often believe that Therapy is for when things are going wrong, however it is not only for you during a time of crisis.
It may be that you are experiencing unfinished or unresolved business, such as a previous relationship that ended badly, or unprocessed grief following the loss or bereavement of a loved one. These, along with other concerns may be impacting on your current life and happiness. Therapy is the space for you to discuss anything that may be on your mind, free from interruption or judgement.
These can include a lack of happiness and contentment, for times when you are feeling lost, anxious, or depressed, you might not even know why you ‘don’t feel yourself.’
The time is yours to explore and discuss anything that matters or is important to you.
I am always mindful of how, for many people, approaching someone for Counselling or Psychotherapy for the first time is often a big step. It can feel daunting, but you are embarking on a path to improving your well-being, so it is actually a very positive action to take.
When looking for someone to work with, it is always recommended that you look to see if they are a member of a registered organisation, such as the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Ensuring that they are a member of the BACP, or verified by counselling listing services, such as Counselling Directory, will offer reassurance that they adhere to an ethical framework, if it isn’t clear ask.
You may also want to look at their professional qualifications and experience. Research has shown that very often we select our therapists based on their appeal, for instance a friendly face, a nice smile, or on the recommendation of a friend.
Once you have chosen someone you usually have the option to email, message or phone. Therapists care and understand that you may feel apprehensive so will welcome your call or message and will want to make the experience easy and comfortable for you.
Once you have contacted your chosen Therapist and arranged the first consultation your journey can begin...
Introductions
During the first session the Therapist will introduce themselves and explain how they work. This is your opportunity to ask any questions about their qualifications, experience and the type of therapy they specialise working with.
It is most important that you feel at ease, and your Therapist will use this time to establish how you would like to be addressed and they will ask if there is anything you would like them to know about you.
Assessments
This is the time that the Therapist will make some confidential notes. You may be asked to complete a form, or it may be completed with you. The information will only be relevant to your sessions and regard information that will help the therapist to support you.
Most importantly during this time, is that the Therapist wants to hear your story, the reason you have sought counselling / psychotherapy, and discover what you are hoping to achieve from it.
Contracting
The Therapist will let you have details of their contract and provide you with a physical copy of the document, or email it to you if that is preferred. They will also provide you with details of the services they provide and the necessary insurance proof.
It is during this time that you consider whether you would like to work with the therapist, and I would encourage you to ask any questions that will help you decide.
It is important that you are comfortable with your choice of Therapist and their way of working...
Example first section of an agreement.
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