Your first psychology session: What to expect (and how to feel ready)

Welcome—your first session can feel big, and that’s okay

Small comforts help. Bring water, a list, or anything that helps you feel settled.

Walking into your first session can feel big. Our job is to make it warm, respectful, and useful from minute one.

First things first: Consent & confidentiality

Before we talk about anything personal, we explain how your information is kept private, the rare times we might have to share it (e.g., safety concerns), and your rights as a client. You’re in control, and we’ll check in as we go.

Good to know: You can ask questions anytime and choose what you do or do not share in the first session.

What we’ll chat about (a simple roadmap)

We’re building a helpful snapshot so we can tailor support to you. Topics may include:

• Your story now: what brings you in, and what you’d like to change
• Family & background: key people and events
• Health: medical history, medications, sleep
• Work & study: what’s going well; what’s hard
• Allied supports: GP, psychiatrist, OT, school

• Mood & stress: anxiety, low mood, anger, burnout
• Safety: gentle check-in about past or current risk
• Developmental history: key milestones (where relevant)
• Previous care: what has/hasn’t helped before

A comfortable space: you can pause, take notes, or ask for breaks.

We’ll also look ahead and plan the next steps together.

Setting direction

• Formulation: we join the dots to understand what’s happening and why
• Goals: clear, doable aims so you know where we’re heading
• Next steps: tools, strategies, or referrals that fit your life

How we work (in plain English)

• Collaborative: we’re a team, and you set the pace
• Evidence-based: We use approaches such as CBT & mindfulness—explained as we go
• Person-centred: tailored to your strengths and communication style

Optional prep (no pressure)

• Jot down 2–3 things you want from therapy
• Bring any helpful reports (e.g., GP letter, school notes)
• Think about what has helped (or not) in the past

Book a session About therapy

Some people like to bring a few notes; others prefer to wing it. Both are okay.

Final thought

The first session is about more than gathering information—it’s about building trust. Our hope is that you leave feeling heard, understood, and reassured you’re in a safe place to start making the changes you’re looking for.