Therapist Blog

Your First Counseling Session: Here's What to Expect

By Karli McClure, LSW

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You’ve found the right therapist to start therapy with. Now it’s time to schedule your first therapy session. Good news! The challenge of finding a therapist is over. So, now it’s time to get acquainted. 

The First Step of Counseling is the Intake

The first counseling session is called, “intake” as this is a time for your therapist to ask assorted questions about your past, present, and hopes for the future. This is important: don’t feel nervous or feel like your therapist is judging you. These questions are meant to help your therapists develop a relationship with you and a recommendation for counseling. 

Your therapist will ask questions about your family's history with mental health, symptoms you are currently having or have had previously, history of past traumas, and what brings you to therapy today. Although it would be impossible for your therapist to learn all there is about you in an hour, this will at least give them a starting point on things you two will begin to work on. Essentially, this session is for the therapist to gather a whole and accurate picture of you. 

Be Vulnerable & Build A Partnership

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The therapist isn’t the only person who asks questions during this session. You’re allowed to ask them too. In fact, at WellMinded Counseling, I encourage my clients to ask me anything they want. I find that it is much easier to be open and honest with someone when they are open and honest with you.

Always remember: therapy is a partnership.  If you find that your therapist is not a good fit, it is always okay to try to find a new one. Therapy is all about supporting and empowering you as the client. I challenge you to be as vulnerable as you can with your therapist because that is when real progress can be made. 

Setting Your Goals With Your Tampa Therapist

All therapists conduct intakes their own way, but typically at some point in the session, your therapist will ask what goals you have for therapy. This question tends to be the most challenging part of the session for some. Your goals should be specific, measurable, and obtainable. What do you hope to gain from therapy? What would you do if your anxiety was not getting in the way of your everyday life? These goals are going to help your therapist support you in the ways you need. 

Therapy can be scary, challenging, and uncomfortable and at the same time, it is life-changing, beautiful, and exciting. Growth and change do not happen after one session. However, each session is a step closer to obtaining your therapy goals. Be kind to yourself through this process and trust that your therapist is leading you in the right direction toward the person you want to be. 

Start Counseling in Tampa, FL or Boulder, CO

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Take the next step towards your journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Schedule your first therapy session now and unlock the transformative power of counseling. Remember, the intake session is just the beginning—a chance for your Tampa therapist to understand your unique story and create a tailored plan to support you. Embrace vulnerability and build a partnership with your therapist, where honesty and openness lead to breakthroughs. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek a therapist who truly resonates with you. Together in counseling, we will set achievable goals that pave the way for positive change. Embrace the challenges, embrace the beauty, and embrace the excitement of this life-changing process. Take the leap and embark on a path toward becoming the best version of yourself.

  1. Reach out for a free consultation

  2. Schedule your first appointment at WellMinded Counseling

  3. Embark on a path toward becoming the best version of yourself

OTHER COUNSELING SERVICES We Offer in Colorado & Florida

Therapy for depression isn’t the only service we offer. WellMinded Counseling offers the following counseling services: