Are you about to start therapy for the first time? Whether you’re going to your first therapy appointment or starting with a new therapist, knowing how to get ready can be difficult. However, starting therapy isn’t as challenging as it may seem, and there are many steps you can take to ensure you arrive ready.
If you want to learn how to prepare for your first therapy session, let’s take a look at four different tips you should keep in mind.
Understand the Kind of Therapy You’re Having
Before your first therapy session, it’s important to understand the type of therapy you signed up for and how it’s structured. Familiarizing yourself with the therapeutic approach your therapist employs, whether it be cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, or another method, can help set realistic expectations for the initial session and subsequent ones.
Knowing what to expect from the first counseling session allows you to approach therapy at your own pace, helping you feel more comfortable and less nervous about the therapeutic process. A family therapist, for example, may have a different approach than an individual therapist, and comprehending these distinctions can lead to a more successful therapy experience.
Additionally, it is also a good idea to understand the problems you’re facing, such as depression, addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other concerns. Arriving with an understanding of what problems you’re facing can help provide you and your therapist with more helpful insight.
Consider Your Therapy Goals
Therapy can become a lot more effective if you know what you wish to achieve with it. As such, you’ll want to start considering your goals for therapy before having your first therapy. You should take some time for self-reflection to identify your specific concerns and personal goals. These goals do not need to be grandiose, as simpler, more realistic goals are easier to achieve.
Whether you’re attending therapy to reduce stress, address past experiences, or improve your overall mental health, having a clear understanding of your own thoughts and expectations allows the therapist to better support you in subsequent sessions. Having one or more goals written down can help your therapist steer the discussion in a more focused direction that caters to your particular needs. While not necessary, it is beneficial to create a list of what is troubling you, such as certain feelings or emotions you wish to overcome.
Be Comfortable
You’re not attending a corporate meeting, so there’s no need to dress the part. When going to a therapy session, you have the freedom to wear outfits you find most comfortable. Feeling at ease in the therapist’s office helps build trust and facilitates open communication. It’s normal to feel nervous before the first appointment, but creating a relaxed environment for yourself can positively impact the initial session and the sessions that follow.
Comfort is important for therapy not just physically, but mentally as well. Being open and honest with your feelings is vital so that your therapist can better understand what you’re going through. As a result, you must remember that you won’t be judged for sharing sensitive, traumatic, and personal information with your therapist. They have the necessary training and experience to discuss and handle such topics with care, meaning that you can be comfortable sharing your emotions with them.
Additionally, there are no wrong answers in therapy either — while coming prepared with questions is beneficial, this is also the time to explore yourself.
Plan Your Day
Therapy sessions typically last a set amount of time, which can vary depending on the therapist or style of therapy. However, to ensure that you get the most out of your session, it’s important to get there on time. If the therapist has other plans or patients, they likely won’t go over time. If you have a busy schedule, allocating time for therapy is important. Planning your day not only helps you manage your time effectively but also allows you to integrate the therapeutic process seamlessly into your routine.
Likewise, it’s also a good idea to plan what you’ll do after your therapy session. Because therapy sessions often involve bringing up a lot of sensitive topics, you should consider doing something fun or relaxing afterward. In addition, you can also benefit from planning for post-therapy reflection. This allows you to process the session more and can help enhance the overall impact of subsequent sessions.
If You’re Interested in Starting Therapy, Reach Out to Solstice Counseling & Wellness Center Today
Would you like to start attending therapy sessions? Then contact Solstice Counseling & Wellness Center today! We offer a variety of therapy programs in New Jersey, including anger management, family services, and more. Reach out today for further information on what to expect and to schedule your first therapy session.