What to Expect When Booking Your First Therapy Session

Going to therapy can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially for the first time. Knowing what to expect can ease some of this tension and prepare you for your first session. If you have any questions before, during or after meeting your counsellor, don’t be afraid to ask! They are there to assist you. 

Consultation phone call

Typically, you’ll have a short conversation over the phone with your potential counsellor to discuss what you’re looking for from therapy. This will give the therapist insight into your needs and help you understand their approach. This initial consultation helps to determine if the relationship is a good match for both parties.  

Forms

Once you book with a counsellor, the clinic will provide a few forms to fill out before your session. This typically includes a general history regarding your mental health, as well as billing information such as insurance. If you’re unsure how to fill them out, there’s no harm in asking the clinic for help. 

When you arrive

If you’re doing an in-person session, there will typically be a receptionist to check in with when you arrive. If you’re doing an online session, your therapist will send you a link to join the meeting. It’s a good idea to test this out in advance, so you have time to troubleshoot if needed. 

What do you talk about?

At the start of your session, your therapist will discuss important information such as:

• • Confidentiality: Most topics are kept between you and your therapist. However, there are a select few that professionals are required to report if brought up during a session.
  • Informed consent: Your therapist will discuss the nature of therapy, risks and benefits, and alternatives to ensure you’re making an informed decision prior to participating. 
  • Conflict of interest: Your therapist may ask about your family members to ensure they aren’t treating someone you’re related to. 

What should I bring?

While preparation is not necessary, it can guide the session towards what you want to discuss. It can be helpful to write down what you’re hoping to gain from therapy, your goals, questions you have and topics you wish to talk about. 

What can I expect afterwards?

It’s completely normal to feel a bit emotionally drained after a therapy session. Give yourself time and space to process any feelings that arise. 

At Allegro, we’re ready to help you every step of the way towards better mental health. Click here to contact us with any questions or book an appointment.