The first session
Often the first thought of engaging with therapy is anxiety-provoking in its own right. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared.
The first session is a consultation and lasts up to 60 minutes. It gives you the first sense of what it might be like to spend time in therapy. I encourage you to ask questions about me and what the process entails. It also gives you the space to talk about what it is that led you to seek therapy. I am likely to ask questions about concerns you want to deal with, and about how you would like your life to be after therapy. I’ll also likely ask you some questions about your past and present relationships. All future sessions are for 50 minutes.
The initial consultation helps you decide if therapy could be helpful; it allows you to get a first sense of whether you are going to feel comfortable with us working together. We may be able to decide this at the end of the first session, or it may take a few more sessions to decide.
I hold all initial consultations at my Fulham practice. The initial consultation is at no cost and does not commit you to continuing with therapy.