Making the decision to start therapy is undoubtedly a big one, but there are also a few things you should keep in mind before your first session. Walking through the door for your first appointment can be difficult and even scary for many people, but we are here to tell you it doesn’t have to be. The very idea of entrusting a complete stranger with some of your innermost thoughts is intimidating, to say the least, but this could easily be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. Many of us have an idea of what we think therapy will be like – which is often based on what we’ve seen in movies and on TV. While these fictitious notions of therapy aren’t too far off, they don’t exactly prepare you for what it will really be like.
Therapy is a great way to address a wide range of concerns. Some of the most common reasons for seeking counseling include anxiety, depression, psychosis, eating issues, marital disputes, family problems, anger, work and career concerns, and conflict.
For both the therapist and the client, the first session is everything. This is where you will begin to build a relationship and where you first start to get to know one another. In order to prepare for your first visit, we’ve put together a few things to keep in mind before you start:
- Start with honesty – Before you come in for your first therapy session here at Lifeworks, we would like to encourage you to make a commitment to honesty. If you aren’t honest (with yourself or your counselor) in the therapy space, you will be missing out. This is a rare and important opportunity that will allow you to be completely honest without any repercussions – so make the most out of it.
- Therapy takes work – It would be a big mistake if you came into your first therapy session thinking you were going to walk out “fixed”. Therapy takes work that could last for years. It is not an immediate prescription for happiness and fulfillment. While making it to your therapist’s office is a big deal, it’s not the end goal.
- Voice any concerns – If something comes up that you are unsure about or you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak your mind. This is important to remember when first starting out, as the best therapeutic relationships are those that are open and honest.
- Therapy is an investment – The skills you will learn in therapy are designed to support you not only with the situation you are in but on your lifelong journey. Consider therapy as an investment for you and your future. Taking this perspective will help you as you move through the process.
- Keep your appointments and be on time – One of the most important aspects of therapy is consistency. Do your best to be punctual and don’t cancel an appointment at the last minute. Making your therapy sessions a priority is very important and will benefit you moving forward. Therapy is not cheap, so the only person you are hurting is yourself when you don’t show up.
- Make sure you like your therapist – Here at Lifeworks, we encourage you to meet with different therapists until you are sure you have found one you like and connect with. It is important that you find your therapist agreeable and that you like their approach.
If you are considering seeking counseling, we encourage you to contact Lifeworks and learn more about our Carrollton therapy services today.
