Have you been considering therapy but feel unsure about taking that first step? You're not alone. Many people experience a mix of hope and anxiety when contemplating therapy, especially if it's their first time. Whether you're seeking personal growth, improved relationships, or strategies to cope with life's challenges, therapy can be beneficial for everyone. Let's explore what you can expect before, during, and after your first therapy session to ease your mind and empower you to make the best decision for your well-being.
Before Your First Session: Setting the Stage for Success
Once you've made the courageous decision to explore therapy, we're here to make the process as smooth as possible. Here's what you can expect:
Initial Contact: Now that you’re ready to reach out, you can contact our office by phone (204 842 3869), email (care@valleyarttherapy.com), or through our online booking Our Care Coordinator will discuss your needs, answer any questions you may have, and schedule your first session. You can also schedule a free 20-minute consultation call with the therapist to make sure they feel like a good fit for you.
Pre-Session Support: Our caring Care Coordinator will provide all the necessary information you need before your first appointment. Your assigned therapist will also reach out to address any questions or concerns you might have, helping to put your mind at ease.
Intake Forms: You'll receive some paperwork through Jane.app to fill out before your first session. Remember, you're in control – share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. The more information you provide, the better prepared your therapist will be to tailor their approach to your needs. Don't worry if it feels overwhelming; you can always discuss things in person with your therapist over time.
Appointment Reminders: Life gets busy, so you will receive an email or text reminder before your appointment. The first one will come 3 days before your appointment, so if you need to cancel or reschedule you can do so 24-hours before your session.
Preparing for Your First Session
As your first appointment approaches, you might be wondering how to best prepare. While there's no need to stress over this – your therapist is there to guide you – here are some tips to help you feel more confident and get the most out of your initial session:
Reflect on Your Goals: Take some time to think about what you hope to achieve through therapy. Whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or working through past trauma, having a general idea of your goals can help focus your first conversation.
Jot Down Your Thoughts: Consider keeping a small notebook or using your phone to note any questions, concerns, or topics you want to discuss. It's easy to forget things when you're in the moment, so having this list can be really helpful.
Gather Relevant Information: If you're currently taking any medications or have a significant medical history, it can be useful to bring this information with you. Your therapist will want to have a holistic understanding of your health.
Plan Your Logistics: Jane.app will send you a reminder which will confirm the session time and location (or login details for virtual sessions). You can arrive at your session start time. Our Birtle office does have a waiting area if you are a few minutes early.
Choose Comfortable Clothing: Wear something that makes you feel at ease. Therapy is about your comfort and well-being, so dress in a way that helps you feel relaxed and yourself. If you have scheduled an art therapy appointment, consider wearing clothes that are okay to paint or create in.
Be Kind to Yourself: It's normal to feel a mix of emotions before your first session. Try to approach this new experience with an open mind and self-compassion.
Remember, your therapist understands that this might be new territory for you. They're there to support you and will guide you through the process. There's no need to have everything figured out before you begin – therapy is a journey you'll embark on together.
Your First Therapy Session
It's completely normal to feel a bit nervous about your first session, but rest assured, we're here to support you every step of the way. Here’s what your first session will look like:
Duration: Most sessions last about 50 minutes, though longer sessions can be arranged if needed, especially for those traveling long distances or engaging in specialized treatments like EMDR for trauma work.
Setting the Stage: The first session is all about building a foundation for your therapeutic relationship. Your therapist will explain their approach, review important policies, and discuss confidentiality to ensure you feel safe and comfortable.
Goal Setting: Together, you and your therapist will explore what brought you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. This collaborative process helps set the direction for your future sessions.
Treatment Planning: You'll discuss the frequency of sessions and potential length of treatment. Remember, therapy is highly individualized – some people benefit from a few sessions, while others may continue for much longer, depending on their unique needs and goals.
What Happens After the First Session
After your initial therapy session, you may experience a range of emotions—from relief to curiosity, or even a sense of empowerment. Many clients feel lighter after sharing their thoughts in a safe, supportive environment. You might notice a heightened awareness of your feelings and thought patterns as you reflect on the session. It's completely normal to have new questions or insights arise afterward—this is all part of your therapeutic journey.
To ensure we're providing the best possible care, you'll receive a brief survey about your intake and first session experience. Your feedback is invaluable as we continually strive to improve our services. If you have any concerns or suggestions, we genuinely want to hear them.
Your therapist may reach out to check in with you following your first session. However, please don't hesitate to contact them or our Care Coordinator if you have any questions or concerns. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and open communication is key to your progress.
As you continue your sessions, you may start to notice positive changes in your mindset, relationships, and overall well-being. Each session brings you closer to achieving your personal goals. While healing and growth take time, you're taking important steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Taking the Next Step
Starting therapy is a significant decision, and it's okay to have mixed feelings about it. Remember, you're in control of this journey, and your therapist is there as a supportive guide. If you're still uncertain, consider taking advantage of our free 20-minute consultation calls to find the right therapist for you.
Seeking support is a sign of strength and self-awareness. By considering therapy, you're taking an important step towards self-care and personal growth. We're here to support you every step of the way, providing you with tools and insights to face life's challenges with increased resilience and confidence.
Ready to start your journey towards better mental health and well-being? Reach out to us today at 204-842-3869 or care@valleyarttherapy.com.
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