What to Expect from your First Counselling Session with Lisa at Gamechanger Counselling (to find out more about Lisa, click below).
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. At Gamechanger Counselling, your first session will be in a safe, welcoming space where you can begin your journey toward healing and growth.
A safe space to talk
Your first counselling session is all about making you feel comfortable and heard. If you’re new to therapy, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. Any questions will be welcomed and answered helpfully, honestly with the aim of informing, inspiring and alleviating any concerns you may have, regardless of what they are. If you don’t have any questions, that’s OK too.
Getting to know you
Time will be spent, at your pace, learning about who you are—your work, daily life, relationships, and more. This helps build a strong foundation of trust and comfort, which is essential for a meaningful counselling relationship.
Exploring your hopes and needs
Why are you seeking counselling now? During your first session, you will be encouraged and supported to explore your goals and expectations. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, bereavement or something else, understanding your needs helps shape a therapy plan that’s tailored to you.
Your Personal and Mental Health Background
To provide the right support, you’ll be asked about your living situation, mental health history, and any relevant background information. This ensures your care is both safe and appropriate for your unique circumstances and counselling goals.
Reflecting on Past Counselling Experiences
If you’ve had counselling before, feedback about your experience, such as what worked and what didn’t, what you did and didn’t feel comfortable with helps to customise your sessions to better suit your preferences and needs.
Setting Realistic Goals Together
Counselling is a process, not a quick fix. Together we will outline realistic, achievable goals so we both share a vision for your progress. With time and commitment, meaningful change is absolutely possible.
Creating a Positive First Experience
Every first session is tailored to your needs. The goal is to ensure you leave feeling supported, understood, and hopeful about your therapeutic journey so you can start to move forward with clarity and confidence.
More information
For more information on what to expect from a first therapy session, take a look at what the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy has to say: