Starting Your Therapy Journey
Your first therapy session can feel both exciting and intimidating. Many people wonder: *What should I say?* The truth is, there are no “perfect” words to begin with. Therapy is about creating a safe space to talk, explore, and heal at your own pace.
You don’t have to prepare a speech or share everything at once. Think of the first session as a friendly introduction where you and your therapist get to know each other.
What You Can Talk About:
- Why you decided to try therapy
- Any current challenges or struggles
- What you hope to gain from therapy
- Your personal goals (short-term or long-term)
- Your comfort level with opening up
IT'S OKAY TO START SLOW – THERAPY MOVES AT YOUR PACE
What You Don’t Have to Share
In your first session, you are *not required* to reveal your deepest secrets or share every detail of your past. It’s perfectly fine if you only want to discuss surface-level concerns or even just how you’re feeling about being in therapy.
Questions You Might Hear
Your therapist may ask some gentle questions to get a clearer picture of your needs:
What brings you here?
Understanding your main reason for seeking therapy.
What are your goals?
What changes or outcomes would you like to see?
What’s your support system?
Learning about your family, friends, or networks.
What coping strategies do you use?
How you manage stress, emotions, or challenges now.
Tips for Your First Session
- Be honest about how you’re feeling – even if it’s nervousness.
- Remember that therapy is a judgment-free zone.
- You can set boundaries about what you do or don’t want to share.
- It’s okay to ask your therapist questions too.
- Give yourself time – progress doesn’t happen in one session.
Your Journey Ahead
Your first session is just the beginning. With each conversation, you’ll build comfort, trust, and a deeper understanding of yourself. Remember: therapy is a journey, and you are in control of the pace. Every step forward is progress.