Feeling nervous about starting therapy? A guide to starting therapy with confidence.

A guide to starting therapy with confidence. Feeling nervous about starting therapy is completely normal, especially if it’s your first time. But understanding what happens inside therapy, what to expect during sessions, and the general ground rules for a successful therapy experience can help ease any concerns you may have. By actively participating in therapy with honesty, patience, and an open-minded attitude, you can gain valuable insights and develop coping skills to improve your mental health and overall well-being. So, take that first step and trust the therapy services provided by experienced psychologists at Wellbeing Help.

Feeling nervous about starting therapy? You’re not alone. Many people experience nervousness and anxiety before their first therapy session. But don’t let your nerves get in the way of starting your journey towards mental health and wellness.

This guide is to help you overcome your nervousness and start your therapy journey with confidence.

Firstly, it’s important to remember that therapy is a safe and confidential space where you can talk about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgement. Your therapist is there to support you and help you achieve your goals.

One way to ease your nervousness is to familiarize yourself with the therapy process. Research the different types of therapy available and find out what to expect during your first session. Knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves and prepare you for your first session.

In this article, we’ll explore what happens inside therapy, what to expect during therapy, and the general ground rules for a successful therapy experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned therapy-goer, this guide will provide valuable insights into the therapy process and help you make the most out of your therapy experience.

It is normal to have questions and concerns about what to expect during your sessions. Let us see this conversation between a client and therapist.

Q. I’m a little nervous and unsure about starting therapy. 

It is alright. I’d be happy to provide some insight into what happens inside therapy. I understand that this may be your first time seeking therapy, so I’m here to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Q. What can I expect during a session?

That’s understandable. During your first session, we’ll spend some time getting to know each other and I’ll ask you some questions about your background and what brings you to therapy. It’s important for me to get a sense of your history and the issues you’re struggling with so that we can create a plan together for how to move forward.

Q. What kind of questions will you ask me?

I’ll ask you about your family history, your relationships, your work, and any medical or mental health issues you’ve experienced. I’ll also ask you about your goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve.

Q. That sounds like a lot. Will I have to share personal details about my life?

Yes, it’s important for me to have a comprehensive understanding of your life experiences and the challenges you’re facing. However, you don’t have to share anything that you’re uncomfortable with. I’ll create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings.

Q. What happens after the first session?

After the first session, we’ll create a plan together for how to move forward. We’ll determine how often we’ll meet and what specific goals we’ll work towards. In subsequent sessions, we’ll continue to explore the issues that brought you to therapy and work towards achieving your goals.

Q. How long will therapy take?

The length of therapy varies depending on the individual and the issues they’re struggling with. It could be a few weeks, several months, or longer. We’ll continually assess your progress and adjust our approach as needed. 

Remember, therapy is a collaborative process and I’m here to support you as we work towards achieving your goals. If you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Hope this has helped you gain some insights into what typically happens inside therapy sessions. Starting therapy can be a big step towards improving your mental health and wellness. Don’t let your nerves hold you back. With the tips and advice provided in this article, you can overcome your nervousness and start your journey towards a happier and healthier life.

Here’s some information on general expectations and ground rules for a successful therapy session:

Expectations for a successful Therapy experience

• Confidentiality: Anything discussed in therapy is kept confidential unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.
• Active Participation: Therapy is a collaborative process where both you and the therapist work together towards your goals. Active participation is necessary for successful therapy.
• Honesty: Being honest with yourself and your therapist is important for understanding and addressing your concerns.
• Patience: Change takes time and therapy is not a quick fix. It may take several sessions before you see progress.
• Open-mindedness: Be open to new ideas and perspectives that may challenge your current way of thinking.

Ground Rules for a professional therapeutic alliance

• Attendance: Be on time for your scheduled sessions and try not to cancel unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Payment: Be aware of the payment policies and make payments on time.
• Respect: Show respect to the therapist and the therapeutic process. Avoid using derogatory language or behaving disrespectfully towards the therapist.
• Communication: Let the therapist know if you’re uncomfortable with something or if you need something to be different in the therapy session.
• No-Show/Cancellation Policy: Be aware of the therapist’s no-show/cancellation policy and adhere to it.

Another way to overcome your nervousness is to find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and supported. Take the time to research different therapists and find one who specializes in your concerns and has a communication style that works well for you.

Finally, remember that therapy is a journey, and it takes time to see results. Be patient and give yourself time to adjust to the therapy process. With a positive mindset and a willingness to learn and grow, you can overcome your nervousness and start your therapy journey with confidence.