If you have never been to therapy before, you might only know what to expect in movies and television shows. Your first session is considered an establishment of your relationship to your therapist that you can be spending many sessions with. It is important to know what to really expect before your first therapy session so that you do not have to feel scared or out of place.
Your first therapy session is considered an icebreaker to get to know your therapist and for your therapist to know you. Your therapist will want an idea of who you are and will ask what kind of issues you are facing and your background. You might be asked about your family, upbringing, what brought you here, if you are experiencing any mental health issues, if you are on any medications, what worked and did not work in the past if you have done therapy. Remember that you can speak to your therapist about anything as your therapist is legally not allowed to disclose any information to anyone unless it is a threat to harm yourself or others. Your therapist will work through each issue with you and anything new that comes to mind.
You should be free to ask your therapist any questions that you have such as what that therapist specializes in, how it would apply to you, and how long of a commitment you will have with each other. It can be a session every week or every two weeks for fifty minutes. Do not worry about feeling out of balance as you are in therapy to get help. It is important for your therapist to see you as you truly are in order to understand your feelings.
You are allowed to ask what they are writing if they take notes. You might get homework asking you to reflect on something, talk to someone, read a recommended book, or change a habit. If you feel like something is not working, make sure to tell your therapist to find another personalized therapeutic style. If your therapist is not a good fit, you can find a new one as it may take several before you find the right one. You will be more aware of your thoughts and behaviors after three to five sessions. The most important thing is to keep an open mind and do what it takes to get better.
Located in downtown Midland, The Springboard Center’s mission is to offer programs and services to treat alcohol and drug addiction treatment using an evidence based curriculum, 12 step programs, diet, nutrition, exercise, emotional, mental and spiritual development for a long recovery. For more information, please call us at 432-620-0255 as we are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
