For your first appointment, I recommend a session that will last an hour and a half, so that you can fill out the paperwork and I can take some history in order to get a better understanding of who you are and where you come from. I will also go over logistical matters, such as fees, how to make or cancel an appointment, and confidentiality.
Don’t worry that you may not know what to do once the session actually begins. It’s normal to feel a little anxious in the first few sessions. I have experience setting the tone and getting things started. In fact, the first session might seem like a game of 20 questions. Some questions will be easier to answer than others. I will be aware and cognisant of this. If the problem is too painful to talk about, I will not push you to say more than you’re comfortable sharing until we get to know each other better. It’s OK for you to say that you are not ready to talk about something just yet.
It’s important not to rush this process, which may take more than one session. While guiding you through the process, I will let you set the pace when it comes to telling your story. As you gain trust in me and the process, you may be willing to share things you didn’t feel comfortable sharing at first.
Once you feel comfortable with me, the space and telling your story, the journey of your therapeutic process begins.