Your First Session

What to Expect at Your First Session

Once you've made the decision to begin counseling, you'll probably want to get right into the issues that have been creating problems or causing you to hurt. As a counselor, I share that desire and promise we will to get to those things as quickly as possible. But, I want you to be prepared that there are some things we will also need to take care of at our first session. Most of these are requirements to protect your rights and be sure you fully understand our agreements for working together. I'll also be asking you some questions that might not seem related to the troubles you're having today. But, we only need to do these things once and then our sessions can be fully spent on concerns that brought you to counseling.

Call today to schedule your appointment. (828) 686-9601

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The first session: what to expect

The first session for couple's counseling should have both people present whenever possible. The first session for family or child counseling will be a meeting with only the parent(s) or adult partners.
At your initial session you will provide some general evaluation and history information, identify your current concerns, and we will explore your goals for counseling. This session will last about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Treatment practices, therapeutic principles, proposed goals, limitations and risks, and fees will be discussed.
Recommendations regarding frequency of appointments, other possible therapies, and a provisional diagnosis will be provided.
For counseling related to family, child, or parenting issues we will discuss who should participate in the sessions and plans for their involvement.
And of course, there is the paperwork. Some forms you will be able to fill out before our first session. Others may need to be done during our time together. During our initial session I will review all the forms with you and answer any questions for you. All forms must be fully completed before our next meeting.
With mutual agreement, counseling or consultation services will begin.