It is completely normal to be nervous before attending your first therapy session. Many people do not know quite what to expect from their first session and feel some apprehension about beginning the process of counselling. Some people have had negative experiences with therapists in the past, some are concerned about making themselves vulnerable and some have told their story over and over.
Menny’s key strength is her ability to connect with people and make people feel comfortable and safe to explore their presenting concerns.
Here is an overview of what you can expect from your sessions with Menny.
- Sessions usually last an hour and are delivered either in person, on the phone or via Zoom.
- If we have a snap lockdown in Queensland, counselling sessions will be made available online or on the phone.
- In the initial session, Menny will explain the boundaries of confidentiality and we will sign a counselling agreement. This includes a confidentiality agreement, consent to release information form, session fees and cancellation fees.
- Menny may conduct psychometric testing in this first session, depending on your presenting concern.
- In this first session, your role is simply to see if you feel Menny is a good fit for you. Research suggests that 30% of the success of therapy is based on the relationship between client and therapist, so it is important that you feel comfortable with your therapist.
- By the end of the first session, Menny will offer a therapeutic plan to address your concerns. You are free to take your time to process this and contact Menny to arrange a future appointment if it feels right.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to counselling. Some people need several sessions and others only a few. Some people space their sessions monthly or fortnightly and others prefer weekly sessions. This is usually led by the client, however if there is a crisis, Menny may recommend an intensive level of support with more closely spaced sessions.