Home / What Happens in Your First Therapy Session (and How to Prepare) | Bridgman Psychological Services
What Happens in Your First Therapy Session (and How to Prepare) | Bridgman Psychological Services
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What happens in your first therapy session, and how to prepare
Your first session is mostly a conversation. We go over the therapy agreement, talk about what brings you in, learn some of your background, and start setting goals. It lasts 45 to 50 minutes, and you do not need to have the right words ready. Here is what to expect and how to prepare.
Before the session
Reaching out is often the hardest part. Call the doctor you would like to see, or send a message through our contact page. We are happy to start with a short phone conversation to see if we are a good fit.
Our Patient Information Form can be downloaded ahead of time. Print it and bring it with you, or ask us how to return it. Filling it out at home means more of your first session goes to you.
The four things we cover
- The therapy agreement. We go over how therapy here works, and your therapist goes over fees with you before you begin.
- What brings you in. You tell us, in your own words, what has been hard. It is fine to start with the part that feels easiest to say.
- Your background. We may ask about school or work history, significant relationships and important experiences. You can always say you are not ready to talk about something yet.
- Early goals. We start sketching what you would like to be different. Goals usually get sharper over the first few sessions.
Your first session at a glance
| Length | 50 minutes with Dr. Laird, 45 minutes with Dr. Shari |
|---|---|
| What we cover | Therapy agreement, what brings you in, background, early goals |
| How often after that | Most clients come once a week |
| During a crisis | More than one session a week may help |
| Bring | Patient Information Form, a pad and pen |
| Payment | Cash or check at each session |
A simple prep checklist
- Jot down what made you call. Two or three sentences is plenty. Anxiety can make it hard to remember in the moment.
- Note what you want to be different. Sleeping better, arguing less, feeling like yourself again. Rough is fine.
- Bring a pad and pen. Many clients like to write down insights before they fade.
- Bring your questions. About fees, scheduling, how long therapy takes, or anything else. Asking is part of finding the right fit.
How long will therapy take?
That is answered person by person. It depends on how many issues you want to address, how long the problem has been there, whether sessions are attended regularly, and whether the changes we talk about get tried between sessions.
Getting the most out of it
Make therapy a priority by coming consistently and trying any homework your therapist suggests. Come to each session with an idea of what you want to discuss. Worksheets like the Dysfunctional Thought Record are free on our Patient Forms page.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, do not wait for a first appointment. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. We are not an emergency service.
Quick answers
What happens in the first therapy session?
We review the therapy agreement, talk about what brings you in, gather some background such as school, work and relationships, and begin to set goals for treatment.
How long is a therapy session?
A typical session is 45 to 50 minutes. Dr. Laird works on a 50-minute session and Dr. Shari on a 45-minute session.
How often do people go to therapy?
Most of our clients come once a week. During a crisis, more than one session a week may be helpful.
What should I bring to my first therapy appointment?
Bring your completed Patient Information Form if you downloaded it, a pad and pen, and a few notes about what made you reach out and what you would like to change.