What happens in a first therapy session?

The first visit has the main objective of getting to know you and understanding what has led you to seek psychological help.

During this session, the professional tends to explore aspects such as:

• The main reason for consultation.
• Since when has unease existed?.
• How does it affect your daily life.
• Relevant personal, familial, or professional situations.
• Goals or expectations regarding therapy.

It is not necessary to tell your whole story in one session. The therapeutic process is built step by step.

What to tell the psychologist in the first session

One of the most frequent concerns is not knowing where to start.

There isn't a right or wrong way to do it. You can start by explaining:

• What are you currently worried about?.
• What situation has led you to ask for help?.
• How are you feeling emotionally.
• What changes have you noticed in your life.
• What would you like to improve?.

Even phrases such as:

«I don't know where to start»

o

«I haven't been feeling well for a while and I need help.»

They are an excellent starting point.

What if I find it difficult to talk about my emotions?

Many people come to see a professional feeling ashamed, scared, or insecure.

This is completely normal.

Discussing emotions, painful experiences or personal situations can be difficult, especially during a first meeting. For this reason, the psychologist will always respect your pace and will not pressure you to talk about anything you do not yet feel ready to discuss.

Silences also form part of the therapeutic process and can provide valuable information.

Common questions on the first visit to a psychologist

Although each professional works differently, some frequently asked questions tend to be:

• What has led you to ask for help now?
• Since when has this been happening to you?
• How does this problem affect your life?
• Have you sought help before?
• What do you hope to achieve with therapy?

These questions are not intended to judge you, but to better understand your situation in order to offer you help that is adapted to your needs.

What emotions might appear after the first session?

After an initial therapy session, it is common to experience a range of emotions.

Some people feel:

• Relief at having shared what is worrying them.
• Hope at the beginning of a process of change.
• Emotional fatigue after discussing difficult topics.
• Nervousness or uncertainty about the next steps.

All these reactions are normal and form part of the adaptation process to therapeutic work.

The importance of trust with a psychologist

One of the most important factors for therapy to work is the so-called therapeutic alliance.

This means that a relationship must exist based on:

• Trust.
• Respect.
• Security.
• Sincere communication.
• Shared objectives.

During the first few sessions, you'll also be able to assess whether you feel comfortable with the professional and whether you perceive they can help you.

You might be interested in reading: What is the therapeutic alliance?.

How long does a therapy session last?

Psychological sessions usually last approximately between 45 and 60 minutes.  

Although more than the set duration, it matters that the psychologist or therapist has sufficient information, and the session can be closed, to work at home and keep progressing.

The frequency is usually weekly at the start of the process, although it can be adapted according to the needs of each person and the therapeutic objectives established.

How many sessions will I need?

There is no single answer.

The duration of the treatment depends on factors such as:

• Reason for consultation.
• The length of time the problem has been present.
• Therapeutic objectives.
• Available personal resources.
• Evolution during the process.

Some people achieve significant results in a few sessions, while others require more prolonged support.

How long does a therapy session last?

Psychological sessions usually last approximately between 45 and 60 minutes.

Although more than the set duration, it matters that the psychologist or therapist has sufficient information, and the session can be closed, to work at home and keep progressing.

The frequency is usually weekly at the start of the process, although it can be adapted according to the needs of each person and the therapeutic objectives established.

Visit Further information

How many sessions will I need?

There is no single answer.

The duration of the treatment depends on factors such as:

• Reason for consultation.
• The length of time the problem has been present.
• Therapeutic objectives.
• Available personal resources.
• Evolution during the process.

Some people achieve significant results in a few sessions, while others require more prolonged support.

When to see a psychologist for the first time

You don't need to wait until you hit rock bottom to ask for help.

Psychological therapy can be useful when the following arise:

• Persistent anxiety or stress.
• Frequent sadness.
• Low self-esteem issues.
• Couple or family conflicts.
• Work difficulties.
• Grief processes.
• Panic attacks.
• Problems with emotional regulation.
• Feeling of being stuck in life.

The sooner intervention occurs, the simpler it usually is to recover emotional well-being.

Perhaps you would be interested in: When to go to couples therapy

First therapy session in Fuengirola – Mijas

At CALMA Psicólogos, we offer a professional, friendly, and safe space where you can begin your therapeutic process without pressure and with the support you need.

If you are thinking of going to a first therapy session, Remember, you don't need to have all the answers or know exactly what to say. The first step is simply allowing yourself to ask for help.