What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Starting therapy is brave. It’s also, if we’re being honest, a little nerve-wracking, especially if you’ve never done it before (or if you’ve done it before and it didn’t quite click). One of the most common things I hear from new clients is some version of: “I don’t really know what I’m supposed to do.”
So let me take that off your plate right now.
Before You Even Walk In
You’ll fill out some intake paperwork. A brief form about your history, what’s bringing you in, and some basic background. Don’t overthink it. There are no right answers, and nothing you write will shock me (I promise).
If we’re meeting virtually (which I offer for all Florida clients), you’ll get a secure link. You’ll just need a private space and a decent wifi connection. Your car, your bedroom, a quiet corner all work.
The First Session Isn’t About Fixing Anything
I want to be really clear about this: we’re not going to solve everything in session one. That’s not what it’s for.
The first session is about you getting a feel for what it’s like to talk to me. It’s about me listening more than talking. We’ll cover:
• What’s been going on and what’s brought you in
• Some relevant background (family, relationships, history at your comfort level)
• What you’re hoping to get out of therapy
• Any questions you have about how I work
You don’t have to share everything. You don’t have to have a polished story. You can say “I honestly don’t know where to start”. That’s a perfectly fine place to begin.
You’re Allowed to Be a Mess
Some people cry. Some people laugh. Some people are nervous and overshare. Some are guarded and say “I’m fine” when they’re clearly not. All of it is okay. I’ve seen every version of a first session, and none of them are wrong.
Therapy with me isn’t about performing “good client.” It’s about being human, and humans are complicated. You don’t need to manage how you come across in session.
After the First Session
After we meet, I’ll have a better sense of what approach might serve you best. If EMDR feels like a good fit for what you’re carrying, I’ll explain how that works and we’ll build toward it at a pace that makes sense for you.
We’ll talk about frequency, in which most clients start weekly. And we’ll make sure you leave with at least a little sense of direction, even if things still feel unclear overall.
Ready to Start?
I’m a mental health counselor and EMDR-trained therapist based in Miami Beach, FL, offering in-person and virtual sessions across Florida. If you’ve been thinking about it, the first step is just a conversation.
→ Book a free 15-minute consultation
