Your First Counselling Session: How to Prepare

Whether or not you have been to counselling before, we know attending your first session with a new counsellor can be nerve-wracking. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your first appointment:

1. Book a consultation call: Did you know that many counsellors will offer a free consultation call? This is a great way for you to get to know each other and for you to decide if you are a good fit

2. Ask your counsellor questions: If have any questions or concerns about the counselling process, you can ask your counsellor about their approach.

3. Talk to a friend or loved one: Sometimes just sharing with a person who feels safe can help to lower our stress.

4. Make a list of topics to cover: If you are worried about forgetting something, bring a list! Also, know that it is okay if everything doesn't get covered in the first session.

5. Dress comfortably: Attending counselling can feel uncomfortable for a number of reasons. Dressing comfortably is one way you can ensure you feel as comfortable as possible.

6. Know your "why": Reminding yourself why you booked the appointment in the first place can motivate you to get there.

7. Know that it is okay if you cry: We all express our feelings differently. Your counsellor is trained to hold space for your pain and will never judge you for how you express it.

8. Know that it is okay if you don’t cry: Your counsellor will also never judge you if you don’t cry in session. We all develop different strategies in life to cope with difficult things.

9. Clear space in your day before and after your session: If you are really nervous, it is okay to give yourself some time to relax before the session. We also encourage clients to take time for themselves after a session - almost like resting your muscles after a workout.

10. Keep an open mind: Keep in mind that no counsellor is perfect and building rapport with a counsellor can take time. It's important to try to assess if any initial discomfort you might feel is due to a true lack of fit or if it's simply due to the "getting to know you" process.

11. Know that you do not have to book another session: Trust your gut if the fit between you and your new counsellor does not feel right. You do not have to book again if you don't want to.

12. Know that your difficult feelings will pass: it is not uncommon for new clients to get cold feet before their first session. Often, the idea of talking about hard things is enough to change their minds. Know that the hard feelings you want to avoid will pass.

Ready to book a session? Contact us