What to Expect in Your First Psychotherapy Counseling Session

What to expect from during your first mental health/psychotherapy appointment

After battling mental health issues for a while, you've decided to do something that will change your life. You've decided to go to therapy. You've researched, found the perfect therapist for you, setup an appointment only now you feel even more anxious... you've never seen a psychiatrist before and you've begun to wonder, "what do I do when I get there?"

Well, that's a very valid question, and it is absolutely normal. Nobody knows what to expect during their first time doing anything, therapy is no exception. That's why I decided to try and ease your mind with this post. Here is what you can expect from your first mental health appointment.

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You Will Feel Uncomfortable.

Change is hard and usually feels uncomfortable, therapy literally changes your life. So expect to feel a little uncomfortable, especially in your first session. Discussing your personal life with a complete stranger won't be easy, but it will be worth it.

You Will Feel Like You're Being Interviewed.

The mental health provider will ask you lots of questions. It might feel like an interview and it might frustrate you. But know that it's normal. Even though it feels like you're doing all the talking and your mental health provider is doing nothing, that is not the case. The first session is for them to learn more about you so they can decide on how to best help you move forward.

You'll Feel Like You're Going to Leave With No Answers.

The first session most likely won't be your last. Your therapist will use this session to get to know you better. You will give more answers than you get and it will seem like therapy doesn't work. But don't give up, it's a process and you will need a few sessions before you see a breakthrough.

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You'll Feel Like Your Mental Healthy Provider is Wrong on Certain Things.

If you do, speak up. It is possible for your mental health provider to be wrong, they aren't God. If you disagree with something they did or said, you are allowed to speak up. The way to make the most of not just your first but all your therapy sessions is to be completely honest, no matter what.

You May Feel Worse Before You Feel Better.

Your first session will make you feel exposed. You'll feel like you got nothing but shame from telling all your secrets to a total stranger. Try to fight that feeling. Your therapist is not there to judge you but to help you. They just needed you to speak in the first session so they know exactly how to help in the next one. Don't miss the next one.

You May Or May Not Be Prescribed Medication.

If you are seeing a mental health provider without prescription privileges you will likely not be prescribed medication. However, you may be referred to a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner or PCP for a further consultation medication will improve your functioning. Medication is necessary for some but not for all mental health conditions. Even in case where medication is indicate, traditional "talk" therapy will likely be beneficial as well. So whether or not you need medication, remains solely at the discretion someone licensed to prescribe medication in your state.

Remember, feeling anxious before, during, and even after your first session is normal. Don't let that fear stop you from taking a step that will change your life. Understand that it's a process and things will get better soon. As long as you don't give up.

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About the Author:

Corine Williams, Ph.D. is Clinical Psychologist that is currently seeing clients through www.therapyforchristians.com/corinewilliams. However, her passion is to write books that educate, uplift, and help provide parents with a tool to talk about difficult subjects. You can find out more about her at www.booksbycorine.com or by visiting her amazon profile here: https://www.amazon.com/Corine-Hyman/e/B00AWZ5FL2

Help us increase mental health awareness in the Christian community by donating through our paypal link here: www.paypal.com/therapyforchristians, joining our mailing list by clicking below, or join our provider list here: Provider listing

Disclaimer: the information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this article are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are looking for a Christian counselor near you, please check out our directory located here: Christians Therapist Near Me