What to Expect In Your First Session

            For someone who’s new to therapy, your first session can feel full of unknowns. You may wonder what you’ll be asked to share, who will take the lead, and why it will take longer than a normal session.  All of this is normal, but below is a list of a few things you can expect from your first session.

1. Questions. So many questions. 

            During your intake session, the therapist’s job is to gather important background information, which may feel redundant or irrelevant to why you’re there. It’s easy - especially if you’re feeling particularly distressed about something specific - to feel frustrated that you aren’t getting right down to the big issue. Try to remember that having a complete background can allow your therapist to make connections you might not have noticed before. This also allows them to learn more about what’s important to you, what interventions might be a good fit, and what triggers should be treated with care.

2. Safety Assessment

            Speaking of questions, you may be caught off guard when your therapist very directly asks if you’re having any thoughts of harming or killing yourself. Keep in mind that we are required to ask this in every intake - it’s not necessarily a result of anything you’re sharing. It’s a common misconception that if you admit any self-harm or suicidal ideation to your therapist that they’ll send you straight to the hospital. At Safe Haven, we do everything in our power to keep you from involuntary hospitalization. In fact, the only time this would be a consideration would be if you were blatantly refusing safety and expressed plans to end your life with no desire to stay safe or work together.

3. Awkward Silence

            If you’re new to therapy, you may feel uncomfortable during long pauses. This is normal - in any other conversation, it would be weird to sit in silence for a few moments after a friend shared something deeply personal and painful. Often it only lasts a few seconds, though it feels like minutes! This silence is an important part of therapy and often gives both the client and therapist time to process what was shared. You’ll get used to these little breaks over time, and you may even grow to enjoy the space.

4. Homework

            Yep, you may get homework from your therapist. Some clients love homework and some clients find it reminiscent of middle school science class. Be honest with your therapist about what you’re realistically open to trying. It may include journaling, a worksheet, reading, or any number of things.

            Hopefully, this list helps make your upcoming appointment feel slightly less daunting. More than anything, try to remember how brave it is to step into therapy for the first time. Your therapist knows how scary it can be and they’ll be working hard to make sure you feel heard and supported.