Taking the first step toward counselling can feel overwhelming, daunting, and intimidating. You might be wondering what to expect in a session, what you might talk about, or what you might say. If you have never attended a counselling session before, it’s normal to feel uncertain about what to expect.
The first counselling session is about getting to know each other; it’s about finding and building a connection with a counsellor. You might talk about what brought you into counselling, as well as the factors that may have influenced that decision. A counsellor may also ask what you wish to get out of the sessions and might inquire about different aspects of your life, like your relationships, current feelings, and personal history. Sometimes a first session is just about the basics, family, hobbies, work, etc.
You don’t need to have everything figured out when going into your first session. Being unsure of your own feelings and emotions does not mean that you can’t seek out support. In fact, being unsure is kind of the whole point.
Whatever you might be bringing to the table, a counselling session should be an opportunity to talk openly in a nonjudgmental and supportive setting to discuss the things that are bothering you, big or small. You don’t have to know all the answers or have a perfect response to what you’re feeling. Part of the work in therapy is putting all the pieces out there and slowly putting them together over time, collaboratively.
Counselling is not a one-size-fits-all process. Some sessions might talk through a challenge that has recently come up in a person’s life, where others might be focused on certain behaviour patterns or finding ways to manage difficult emotions. A counsellor might ask questions, offer tools, and reflect on your experiences to help you gain a different perspective or more insight into something you’re dealing with.
You might also experience moments in counselling that are challenging, creating a deeper understanding of your emotions. Silence can also be normal in a session, whether you’re gathering your thoughts or trying to work through difficult emotions that have come up. You might also be left with more questions that you want to talk about in future sessions. All of these are a normal part of the process.
Counselling is a process where change doesn’t always happen all at once. Your needs, pace, and goals are important, and open communication and a lack of judgment should be most present. You don’t need to wait for things to be unmanageable to seek support; counselling can meet you where you are.
Written by: Sol C. Edited by: Nat Y.
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