What to Expect from Your First Counselling Session

You’ve taken the first step, decided that you would like some support and have reached out to a counsellor.

You may have spoken to them on the phone or perhaps exchanged emails. You’ve agreed on a date and time for your first session and the day is fast approaching.

Are you feeling nervous, curious about what your counsellor will be like, uncertain what to talk about, worried about getting too emotional?

I’m here to let you know that it’s perfectly natural to have these worries. I’ll let you into a secret too - your counsellor might also feel a little nervous - we’re only human after all! We want to make a good first impression and help you to feel welcome and comfortable as we begin our work together.

Counselling with me

Each counsellor has their own way of working depending on their training and personality. I can only speak for myself and give you an idea of what to expect from your first counselling session with me.

Before our appointment we will generally have spoken on the phone. This helps me understand your reasons for seeking counselling, and what you hope to achieve from our sessions. It also gives you a chance to ask any questions you might have.

I find that hearing each other's voices is a great way to start building that all important connection.

You may have seen a profile photo on my website or directory listing which will help you to know who to expect. I may look a little different - my hairstyle is subject to change! I will (probably) be wearing blue, my favourite colour.

Arriving at Leigh House

When you arrive at Leigh House press the bell and you will be shown into the reception area. Sonia who works at Leigh House, will let me know that you are waiting and I’ll come downstairs to introduce myself and collect you in time for our appointment.

Once we are in the room, I’ll invite you to take a seat and make yourself comfortable. I have water for you to drink and tissues to hand, should you need either. We may have some paperwork to fill in but we will have already discussed this on our call. 

Getting to know you

Counselling is a talking therapy, but I know that this can be difficult for some clients. If sitting still isn’t for you, you can move around, take off your shoes if that’s more comfortable, or use one of the sensory objects that are in a basket close by.

I also understand if making eye contact feels uncomfortable for you, so don’t worry if you need to look away. There are also pens, paper and other crafty resources in the room so if you feel more comfortable getting your thoughts and feelings down on paper in words or pictures (you don’t need to be an artist!) then feel free to do that.

During our session I will listen carefully, sometimes asking questions, to fully understand how you are feeling. I’ll ask more questions in the first session - I want to get a sense of you and your circumstances, your support network, your likes and dislikes etc. To begin to get to know you.

I understand that it can take time to feel ready to talk about your feelings. I won’t rush you, we’ll go at your pace. There may be tears, there may be laughter, it’s surprising what might come up for you.

Towards the end of your session

As we come towards the end of the session I’ll let you know when we have a few minutes left. I’ll recap what we have spoken about, check in to see how you are feeling and ask how the session was for you.

I want you to leave the room feeling safe and settled, as you may have talked about some difficult feelings during our time together. We’ll talk about further appointments and get those in the diary. I try to offer the same time/day in week or fortnight but I’m flexible as I know how busy lives can be.

At the end of our appointment, It’s not usual for clients to say “I can’t believe how quickly the time has gone, I really didn’t know what I was going to talk about.”

Click here if you would like to book a call to discuss how counselling can help you.