Therapy Intake Sessions: What to Expect & How to Prepare

The first session with your therapist can feel daunting. You may be wondering what they are like as a person, if you will connect, and what in the world you will talk about for one hour.

Typically, I structure my first sessions similar to what you would experience going into a new doctor’s office. Instead of asking you 100 questions about your physical health and family’s health history, I ask questions regarding to you as a whole person.

These may include:

Demographics

What is your date of birth?

Where did you grow up?

Physical Health

Do you ever exercise?

Do you experience chronic pain?

Previous Therapy

Have you sought counseling in the past?

Family & Friends

Tell me a little bit about your family structure:

Prior Mental Health

Have you ever been diagnosed with a mental health condition?

Hobbies & Interests

What things in your life currently bring joy?

Often I recommend my clients have water nearby and take a short break after therapy before returning to their daily activities. It can feel like sharing your whole life story with a stranger - because that is basically what it is. But doing this enables me to make relevant therapeutic goals that we can use and refer back to as our sessions continue.