If you have never seen a therapist before, going for your first clinical counselling session might be intimidating for you. But if you know what’s going to happen or what’s expected in the first session, things might be easy for you. The situation will be stress-free, and the session will be completed successfully.
In this post, we will discuss things to expect with your first interaction with a registered clinical counsellor.
Things to expect
Introduction and Paperwork
The session will not begin as soon as you reach the clinic. First, you will be asked to fill out intake forms. In these forms, you will have to enter personal information, medical history, present issues, and if you have gone through any therapy in the past.
After filling out the forms, the counselors will introduce themselves. Also, they will discuss their treatment approach and policies.
Setting Goals and Expectations
It’s important for counsellors to know your reasons for counselling. Also, they wish to know your expectations from the treatment. These details help them set treatment goals and strategize them for your benefit.
For this, a counsellor will ask you multiple questions and set realistic and measurable goals. But, when defining the goals, they will consider the timeframe and your expected results.
Discussion of Treatment Options
Clinical counselling includes different therapeutic modalities. Based on your current health condition and relevant needs, counselors will discuss the treatment options. Some common options are CBT, mindfulness practices and others.
When discussing treatment options, you can ask questions regarding the treatment option selected for you. Also, you can inquire about how the treatment will be applied to your problem and give desired results.
Outcomes and plan to maintain positive changes
Treatment application is not enough, so the first interaction exceeds to discussion regarding outcomes. Also, plans are made to maintain positive changes during and after the treatment. The counsellor will discuss ways to identify progress and track positive changes.
Other than this, there will be plans defined for addressing potential challenges after the completion of the sessions.
How should you prepare for your first session?
Now, you know what will happen in your first interaction with registered clinical counsellors. Next, you should know some important things to prepare for the session.
Preparation includes knowing about the therapy, preparing questions to ask, setting goals, and taking notes of your symptoms. Other than this, you should be open and honest about your thoughts and feelings and arrive timely for the session. Remember, the counsellor will always support you and you will feel great only after the first session.
Your first session is incomplete if you don’t discuss post-therapy reflections. Be prepared with all your doubts and seek their answers from the counsellor. This will prepare you for future sessions.
In Conclusion
The first clinical counselling session is not as intimidating as it seems. If you know what is going to happen and are prepared for the same, your first session will complete smoothly. So, don’t worry.
To schedule an appointment for clinical counselling services in Richmond, BC, contact Pegasus Integrated Health today.
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