First of all, we WANT people to come to us for help in healing. That's what we trained for. Many counselors have had therapy and know how necessary it is.
We strive to make the initial process as easy as possible in an attempt to offer safety and acceptance no matter what the issue might be.
That's why we choose soothing color schemes, comfortable furniture and ambient lighting. Well, most of us do; my office is purple and has a 'NO WHINING' sign over the sofa.
Once the potential client contacts our office for an appointment, they are given the office location and directed to the waiting room. Once there, important paperwork must be filled out to give to the counselor.
This paperwork includes basic information, reason for session, goals for counseling and disclosure and release forms that must be signed. These forms aid the counselor in knowing what direction the client desires to go in therapy.
At the appointed time the therapist comes to the waiting room to meet the client(s). I like to break the ice with a light-hearted comment in an attempt to ease any tension the client might experience in coming.
FYI- it's not unusual for a first-time client to have had a stressful day before our first meeting. Many people get delayed in traffic, get lost, have had a fight with friends or family. It seems to be part of the personal challenge of obtaining help despite the circumstances. So if it happens to you, accept it as part of the process.
I always tell first-time clients that this meeting is my audition. It is up to them to determine if they get a good vibe from me and feel they can work with me through this process. Therapy is inherently challenging; if they could fix the issues on their own they would have done so.
Many people don't know where to start when beginning therapy so I often ask questions from their intake form that will put them at ease. Most times we end up chatting as if we've know each other for years.
The first session is spent just getting acquainted. Some therapists follow a checklist, going over each question with the person and filling in the information. I prefer just relating to the person and getting a sense of whether we can work well together.
I believe in being truthful about my potential compatibility with the client. If I sense something that might hinder the experience I refer them to an associate I believe will be more suitable. It's important to me that the client get the appropriate help with the right counselor.
The initial session is over in no time. The hour seems to fly by. I give my final impressions and encourage the person to take time to think about whether they feel we could be a team.
If so, I ask them to contact our office and make future appointments. And that's it.
I can't tell you how many times my most hesitant client has been surprised that the session was actually enjoyable. It helps lay the foundation for future sharing and learning.
Some quick tidbits:
If you are interested in counseling, remember that this is YOUR time. For once in your life you have permission to have it be about YOU.
If you get a bad first impression please try another therapist. Go to several therapists before you commit to one if you must.Your potential relationship with the counselor is crucial: Can you share with him/her? Do you feel safe? Will this person accept you but not make excuses for your behavior? Can you accept hearing the truth from this therapist?
Whatever you decide, pursue it until you get the helper who's right for you.
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