Are you anxious about your first session? Or just wanting to know the process? Then this page is for you. This is to give a rough guide to how our first session may go. It is important to remember that all sessions are unique, as Nathan does his best to tailor them to you.
Your first session will be a one-on-one session with Nathan. Sessions go for up to 50 minutes. See pricing for more information on costs. Generally, sessions are paid for in advance, but you will receive an email with payment details when you book your first appointment.
The first session is where we get to meet one another, discuss what therapy might look like, explore confidentiality, for Nathan to get an idea of your presenting situation, and to come up with a plan for how therapy will go.
For a rough idea of your first session, this is a general structure:
Introductions - where we begin to get to know each other. This doesn't mean jumping straight in to talk about past trauma or the big stuff, but just beginning to connect.
Discussing confidentiality
Establishing needs - it is important that we are on the same page, to know why you are seeking therapy. To do so, Nathan will begin exploring what your presenting concern is. Think of this as giving us the headlines. We will explore the finer details as we move forward, but to begin with, we just need a broad understanding.
Exploring the presenting concerns - this is where we begin to dig a little, and Nathan will ask more specific questions about the reasons you want therapy. As this is only your first session, you can say as much or as little as you are ready to discuss.
Background information - we know there is so much information that you might need to or want to share, and this is where we begin that process. This might include exploring your living situation, relationships, childhood, or mental health history. This can also include questions about alcohol and other drug use, self-harm ideations, and thoughts of suicide.
Developing a plan - every first session ends the same way, where we plan for the future. Nathan will talk about what River City Therapy can offer, and what therapy with us will look like. Then ask how you feel about this. This is completely your decision, we can make changes to the plan, or even explore alternative options for support if we are not the right fit. But by the end of this first session, you should have a rough plan for where to next.
Confidentiality agreements are formal agreements between River City Therapy and yourself, regarding your private information. This is to ensure that your information remains private and that you are aware of how the confidentiality process works.
Can I bring a support person to my first session (or future sessions)?
Of course, if having someone with you will make you feel more comfortable, then please bring them along. However, only bring someone who you are okay with hearing everything that we discuss in therapy.
What should I do after my first session?
Your first therapy session might feel like a weight off your shoulders, or it might feel heavy and draining. Both responses are normal. It is important to check in with yourself, and we always recommend some self-care after therapy sessions.
Is it okay to cry during therapy?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to cry and can be a very normal response. We have tissues.