What can I expect from a first session with my psychologist?

Attending a first session with me can feel daunting. You may feel vulnerable and uncertain about what to expect, especially given some misconceptions about psychologists in the community.

First and foremost, please relax. I am just a human being like you. I would like to take a moment to introduce myself and ensure that you feel welcome. I also want to provide a brief overview of my experience and knowledge in psychology.

At this point, I hope we can both feel more relaxed and comfortable discussing what led you to take this important step of consulting a clinical psychologist. Many clients contemplate this decision for a long time before their first session, which often makes it easier for them to engage in conversation. If you haven't reflected much on this yet, it may be helpful to think about it and, if you choose, jot down some notes on what you would like to discuss.

I will guide our discussion by giving you time to express your thoughts and emotions. Generally, I would like to understand the scope and background of the issues you're facing and what you hope to achieve. Additionally, it would be helpful to know the steps you have taken in the past to address these concerns. This discussion will likely take up a significant portion of our first meeting, and it's crucial for me to gain a clear understanding of the challenges at hand.

Transparency and honesty are vital for our conversation. While you may feel vulnerable, rest assured that any information you share will be treated with professionalism, and it will help us understand the path forward.

Towards the end of the session, we will begin developing an initial treatment plan, which can be adjusted as we progress. Treatment plans aren't fixed; many variables can influence our goals. We may also discuss which treatment models would be most effective for your situation.

Finally, it’s important for you to share your treatment goals. Are there any boundaries I should be aware of for us to be successful? Are there any questions you would like to be answered prior to a second session? We will also discuss how often we should meet and what times work best for you.