What to expect from your first counseling session in #Cypress,TX

You booked your first counseling or therapy session—YAY, the hardest part is done! But now what do you do? Is there prep work you should do before hand? Cypress is a big “small” city with various kinds of counselors available to you. However, we know, many people may feel anxious or uncertain about their first counseling session. In this blog post, we will explore what to expect from your first counseling session and answer some common questions to help you feel more prepared.

What will happen after you make the decision to schedule?

The first step towards your first counseling session is to schedule an appointment with a licensed professional in Cypress. Although this seems straightforward, not all counselors use the same process. Some therapists have an online booking system or phone number available on their website, or you can ask for a referral from your doctor. Once you have scheduled an appointment, you should receive an intake form or questionnaire that you need to fill out before your first session. This will help your therapist understand your background, goals, and any mental health issues you may be facing.

What do you need to do to prepare for the first session?

Before your first session, it's essential to take care of yourself, and prepare mentally and emotionally. Some helpful tips include:

Set aside enough time: Make sure you have enough time before and after your appointment to prepare and reflect on your session.

Think about your goals: It can be helpful to reflect on what you hope to achieve through counseling.

Write down questions: If you have any questions or concerns about the process, write them down beforehand.

What happens in the first session?

Here at Youngs Counseling, the first session is an opportunity for you to get to know your counselor and for them to understand your needs and goals. We will go over the intake paperwork together and discuss Informed Consent & Confidentiality. Your therapist will ask you about your background, current challenges, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. At this time, they may also discuss their therapeutic approach and what you can expect from future sessions.

Remember, it’s just a conversation—we want you to be comfortable, so don’t sensor yourself. Speak as you would outside of the therapy room. Don’t try and hold back to “protect” us. Our job is to help you, but we can’t do that if you leave out pieces to your story. It's important to be open and honest with your therapist to help them understand your needs fully. During future sessions, you will begin to work on your presenting symptoms with appropriate coping strategies. Once you’re successfully using those skills, we will dig deeper as to the cause of your symptoms and then begin to process through those events or experiences.

Will I have homework?

Your therapist will discuss lots of ways you can reengage and approach your life. What you choose to take as “homework” is up to you. This could include journaling, practicing relaxation techniques, working on specific skills or coping strategies, or perhaps an actual worksheet—it all depends on your needs and ultimately what you want from your therapy session. Don’t be afraid to ask your counselor for book or podcast recommendations, or workbooks if that’s a way you learn. Any tools you learn in session are designed to for you take with you and apply to your daily life.

When will I have my next session?

The frequency and length of your sessions will depend on your needs and goals. As your counselor we will likely discuss a treatment plan with you, which may include regular weekly or bi-weekly sessions. It's essential to commit to the treatment plan to achieve the best results.

What if I don’t like what happened in the first session, or am not sure it is a good match?

It's not uncommon for people to feel uncertain or uncomfortable after their first counseling session. If you don't feel like you clicked with your counselor, or you don't feel like they understood your needs, you may want to consider finding a different counselor. It's essential to communicate your concerns with your therapist before making any decisions. They may be able to adjust their approach or refer you to another therapist who may be a better match for you.

At times, seeking counseling or therapy can be a difficult decision. However, it's essential to remember that your counselor is there to help you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. Be open and honest with your counselor, and don't be afraid to ask questions or share your concerns. Remember that counseling is a collaborative process, and your counselor is there to support you every step of the way.

We hope this guide helps you find the right therapist in Cypress, TX. If you are still feeling stuck, feel free to call us at (281) 315-0386 to set up a free 15-min consultation. We would be happy to hear about what is happening and help direct you to the right person!

Please note the content found on any page of Youngs Counseling, PLLC is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not intended to be clinical advice, nor should it be considered a substitute for therapy, crisis services, or professional advice and treatment.