What to Expect From Therapy: Your First Therapy Session

The American Psychological Association (APA) describes therapy (short for psychotherapy) as a service a therapist (or psychotherapist) provides. These mental health professionals diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral issues.

In the United States, therapists hold certifications from a state board. They help individuals, couples, family members, and groups work through issues. This usually involves asking a lot of questions about past and present experiences. For this reason, another name for “therapy” is “talk therapy.” The ultimate goal of therapy is to assist the patient in determining a treatment plan that will help them work through their mental health conditions and achieve personal growth.

There are different types of therapy. Among the different models are:

1. 1. Cognitive behavioral therapy: A therapist who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps patients identify faulty or distorted ways of thinking that lie at the root of psychological issues. The therapist guides the patient through identifying specific thought patterns and teaches them coping strategies so they can overcome them.
2. 2. Humanistic therapy: Analysis is less important than experience in humanistic therapy. Practicing acceptance and role-playing can lead to personal development and the discovery of one’s true self.
3. 3. Psychodynamic therapy: Also known as psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy focuses on the client’s unconscious thoughts and beliefs and how they affect the individual’s conscious behavior. It requires a close therapeutic relationship between the patient and the practitioner to illuminate truths about how the patient interacts with others in their everyday life.

Within the different specific categories of therapy, there are a variety of therapists. Three of the most common practitioners are:

1. 1. Clinical psychologists: According to the APA, a clinical psychologist provides comprehensive mental health care to individuals and groups while also serving as a consultant to organizations and communities and a teacher/supervisor to psychology trainees. They have training in various mental health specialties and typically hold a doctorate in psychology.
2. 2. Counselors: A licensed professional counselor (LPC) helps clients with special issues, including substance abuse and behavioral problems. A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is a specialized counselor who treats mental health issues but also assists clients in accessing resources that support their well-being.
3. 3. Psychiatrists: Both clinical psychologists and psychiatrists provide psychotherapy treatment to patients; however, a psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication as part of a treatment.

Here are steps worth undertaking when you begin your search for the right therapist:

1. 1. Consider the cost. Determine your budget when looking for a therapist. If money is an issue, begin your search with health providers your health insurance covers. There are also low-cost options to consider; speak to your general practitioner or insurance company to find out what’s available in your area at the price point with which you’re comfortable.
2. 2. Determine the type of therapy. People have different needs. Depending on the severity of your issues and the specific outcomes you desire, there might be certain types of therapy that would serve you better than others. Do research into the different modalities to determining what could be a good fit. If you’re unsure, ask your primary care physician for assistance.
3. 3. Meet with more than one if necessary. It’s okay to meet with several different therapists to find a good match for your budget, requirements, personality, goals, and background. Location is also an important factor since it’s imperative you’re able to be consistent with your appointments. While it can be awkward and time-consuming to consult a new therapist, your comfort and connection with a potential therapist are important elements of therapy work. Ask each candidate about their approach to therapy and any specialities they have so you can make an informed decision.

You can expect several things to happen during your first therapy session, including:

• A conversation about your goals: If you agree to more sessions with the therapist, you need to agree on several particulars at the end of your first therapy session. These include the cadence and length of future sessions, the details about patient confidentiality, and your methods of payment.
• A discussion of your background: Most first meetings with a therapist include questions that will help the professional understand your reasons for seeking out therapy. Topics might include your current symptoms, family history, and past relationships.
• Paperwork: Therapy sessions could take place in the therapist’s office or over the internet as online therapy sessions. You will most likely fill out paperwork before the start of the first session to provide your medical history, a record release form, and insurance information.

Ask questions of your potential therapist in your first therapy session so you can be your own best mental health advocate. A few questions worth asking are:

• How many sessions will I need? Ask your therapist at your first appointment if they have an idea of the number of sessions you might need. Keep in mind most mental health issues require more than a short-term arrangement.
• What will happen in my sessions? It’s important to know what will happen in the next session and future sessions. Most sessions begin with the patient providing a check-in before the therapist and patient dive into specific issues. Some therapists, however, will review outside work, such as journaling, as part of each session.
• What is your approach to therapy? The sort of therapy your potential therapist employs is an important consideration. Types of therapy include CBT, psychoanalysis, holistic therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and others. Ask the therapist to explain a method if you’re unclear of their definition.

Finding the right therapist is a crucial component of therapy. Therapy involves discussing deep-seated and often difficult emotions. You should feel comfortable talking to your therapist about such personal issues; a good therapist makes you feel heard and validated. At no time should you feel judged for your mental health concerns. There should also be no insults, demeaning comments, unreasonable demands, or breaking of personal boundaries.

Good therapy is about removing obstacles to personal growth and will lead to progress you can recognize. If you feel yourself moving past or making peace with some of your issues, you’re on the right track with your therapist.

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