What do you do in therapy?
🛋️ What Does an Initial Therapy Session Look Like? Let’s Take the Mystery Out of It! 🌟
Hey there, friend! 💬 If you’re thinking about starting therapy (or you’ve already booked your first session), you might be wondering... What is that first session actually like? Do I lie down on a couch? Is the therapist going to ask me about my childhood right away? Is it weird?? 😅
We totally get it—starting therapy can feel a little nerve-wracking at first. But don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through it step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect. Spoiler: It’s much more chill than most people think. 🙌
📋 First Things First: The Paperwork (We Promise It’s Not Scary!)
Before your first session, you’ll fill out some forms. These help us understand your needs and keep everything legal, ethical, and safe for you. Here's what’s usually included:
✅ Terms & Conditions – This just lays out how our practice works and what you can expect from us. Transparency is key! 🗝️
✅ Credit Card Authorization – We securely keep a card on file for billing, but we’ll always let you know in advance about any charges. 💳
✅ HIPAA Compliance – This protects your private health information. It basically says: What happens in therapy, stays in therapy. 🔒
✅ Informed Consent – This lets you know what therapy involves, how it works, and your rights as a client. Nothing sneaky—just honesty and clarity.
✅ Intake Form – This is a “getting to know you” form. We’ll ask about your background, what brings you in, and any goals or concerns you have. ✍️ (Each person fills one out—even in couples or family sessions.)
✅ Telehealth Consent – If we’re meeting online, this gives permission to use secure video sessions. 🖥️
✅ Privacy Policy – How we keep your info safe and sound. Your trust is everything to us. 💼
✅ Good Faith Estimate – This outlines the expected cost of services, so there are no surprises. It’s part of your right to know what you’re agreeing to. 💰✨
🛋️ So, What Happens During the First Session?
Once we’ve got the forms squared away, it’s time to meet your therapist! 🙋♀️🙋♂️ Your first session is mostly about getting to know you. Here's what you can expect:
💬 We’ll Talk About Why You’re Here
Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship stuff, trauma, or just feeling stuck—we want to hear your story, in your own words.
📖 We’ll Go Over the Intake Form Together
Your therapist might ask follow-up questions to understand more about your background, health, and life experiences.
🌟 We’ll Talk About Your Hopes for Therapy
You don’t need to have it all figured out! Whether you have a clear goal or just know you need support, we’ll work together to shape your path.
🧭 We’ll Explain How Therapy Works
Your therapist will go over how sessions are structured, what types of therapy might be helpful, and how often you might meet.
💖 What You Won’t Be Asked to Do
❌ You don’t have to “spill everything” right away.
❌ You won’t be judged, rushed, or pressured.
❌ You don’t need to have all the answers.
This is your space, your pace. 🌿
🌈 Final Thoughts: Therapy Is a Brave, Kind Step
Starting therapy is a powerful act of self-care—and we’re honored to walk with you. That first session might feel a little new, but we promise: it’s all about creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported.
Whether you’re coming in as an individual, part of a couple, or with your family—we’re here to meet you with compassion and respect. 💛
📞 Ready to Take That First Step?
Your first consultation with Compassionate Empowered Counseling is 100% free.
No pressure—just a friendly conversation to see if we’re a good fit for your journey.
Reach out today to schedule your free consultation. We can’t wait to meet you. 🌷
Compassionate Empowered Counseling – Healing with Heart. Growing with Hope. 🌟🛋️