Attending your first counseling session can feel intimidating. Opening up about how you feel can be difficult, on top of navigating things like insurance and paperwork. Knowing what to expect will help you make the most of your experience.
Reflect on Your Decision to Attend Counseling
Take some time before your appointment to think about why you’re attending counseling and what you want out of it. What goals do you want to achieve? Remember that counseling is about making a commitment to yourself.
People attend counseling for a number of reasons. Some are seeking ways to cope with stress. Others are looking for guidance in identifying and regulating their emotions. No matter what your reason is, asking for help is a positive thing and a sign of strength.
Write Down Your Questions
Before you start counseling, make a list of questions you’d like to ask your counselor. It’s okay to feel nervous or have a lot of questions. Remember that your counselor is here to help you, not judge you.
Have Your Documents and Forms Ready
At least a few days before your first session, gather any documents and complete any forms you are asked to bring. If applicable, have your insurance information on hand.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
When you head to your appointment, give yourself extra time to get there so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you have time to check in.
If your appointment is virtual, find a private space where you can talk. Check your internet connection and download any video conferencing software you may need ahead of time.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Once you get to your appointment, be prepared to fill out some paperwork if you haven’t already. If you encounter any questions about your reasons for coming to therapy, answer honestly. This information will help your counselor understand how to help you.
At your first session, your counselor will go over any forms you completed and get to know a little bit about you. The two of you will discuss the concerns that have led you to seek counseling. Your counselor will also take note of what you want to get out of the experience and start to establish goals for future sessions.
Once you’ve completed your first session, you may feel like you didn’t cover as much as you were expecting. This is normal. Your counselor will need to get to know you better and build trust before discussing your concerns in depth.
Remember that you won’t see the results you want after just one session. But over time, counseling can have an overwhelmingly positive impact on your quality of life.
Ready to Try Counseling?
Catholic Charities’ Counseling program serves individuals in Arizona dealing with a variety of issues, including stress, anxiety and depression, and grief. Services are fee-based with a sliding scale. We accept Mercy Care, Molina Complete Care, and Banner University AHCCCS plans.
Schedule an appointment today by calling 602-749-4405.
