My first time in therapy: how to prepare

Going to therapy for the first time is like walking into a gym without knowing which machine to use. It's fine to feel lost.

Before the session

• You don't need to have "a topic" mapped out. If all you know is that you feel bad, that's enough to start.
• Write down three things that brought you here. They don't have to be deep.
• Prepare questions for the therapist: approach, experience, languages. It's valid to interview them.

During the first session

You'll talk about your general story, not unpack everything. The goal is for you and the therapist to see if you "click".

What NOT to expect

• Instant solutions. The first session is for mapping.
• To have to cry. Some people cry, others don't. Either is fine.
• The therapist to judge you. If you feel that, find another.

The best thing you can bring to a first session is honesty and the willingness to ask whatever you don't understand.