What to Expect in Your First Session
Starting therapy is just the beginning of an open, self-paced exploration of your life transitions, and it is completely natural to feel both hopeful and nervous as you take this first step without needing to have everything figured out.
Below is a brief guide to how our first 50 minutes together will unfold.
Setting the Groundwork (Practicalities and the Therapeutic Framework)
We will begin by reviewing some of the practical aspects of our work together, including session length, confidentiality, and any questions you may have about fees or logistics. This isn't about rigid rules; it's about establishing a clear and supportive framework so that you know what to expect and can feel safe and secure within the counselling process.
The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective counselling, and creating a space where trust and openness can develop begins with clarity about how we will work together. (For full details, please see my Working Together page.)
Sharing Your Story at Your Own Pace
In our first meeting, you’re invited to share what has brought you to counselling. You may have a clear sense of the difficulties you're facing, or you may simply feel that something doesn’t feel quite right. Both are equally welcome.
My approach is integrative and rooted in person-centred values, which means I will listen with genuine curiosity, empathy, and respect for your unique experience. There is no pressure to share more than you feel ready to. My role is not to provide quick answers or tell you what to do, but to offer a thoughtful and supportive space where we can begin to make sense of your experiences together.
We will explore whatever feels important to you, allowing your story to unfold at a pace that feels safe and comfortable.
Exploring Your Hopes for Therapy
During our sessions, we will gently explore what you hope counselling might offer you. Some people arrive with very clear goals, while others are less certain and simply know they would like things to feel different. Both starting points are valid.
Understanding what feels important to you can help guide our work together. Whether you're seeking greater self-understanding, support through grief, a renewed sense of direction, or simply somewhere to think and feel openly, we can begin to consider what meaningful change might look like for you.
As our work develops, we will regularly check in together to ensure that therapy continues to meet your needs and reflects what feels most helpful.
Checking the Fit
Above all, the first session is an opportunity for us to see how we fit. Counselling is a collaborative relationship built on trust, openness, and mutual respect. Just as I will be considering how best to support you, I encourage you to notice how it feels to talk with me.
After our first session, you may wish to take some time to reflect on the experience before deciding whether you'd like to continue. Feeling comfortable enough to be yourself within the therapeutic relationship is important.
If you decide that I'm not the right counsellor for you, that's completely okay. I'm always happy to suggest other practitioners, either in Bath or online, who may be a better fit. Your wellbeing is what matters most.
Beginning counselling can feel daunting, but you do not have to face grief, change, uncertainty, or life's challenges alone. Whatever brings you here, you are welcome to bring every part of yourself into this space, exactly as you are.
If you'd like to learn more about my approach, grief counselling, or practical information about sessions, please explore the relevant pages on my website. If you'd like to take the next step, you're welcome to book a free 15-minute introductory call.