What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

Embarking on therapy can be a transformative step toward better mental health, especially in a supportive community like Lafayette, LA. With statistics showing that 19.2% of U.S. adults received mental health treatment in 2019, and demand continuing to rise, more people are recognizing the value of professional support. If you're considering your first therapy session in Lafayette, Tree of Life Counseling and Consulting is here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Our team specializes in creating a welcoming environment to demystify therapy, helping potential new clients feel at ease from the start.

This article aims to bridge the gap between uncertainty and empowerment by explaining what happens in your first counseling appointment. We'll cover therapy session tips, the therapy intake session, easing therapy anxiety, the starting therapy process, and therapist-client relationship basics.

Why the First Therapy Session Matters

The first session, sometimes called an intake session, lays the foundation for the entire therapy process.

• First impressions count: This is when you get a feel for your therapist’s style, and they begin to understand your needs.

• Relationship building: Research shows that the therapeutic alliance (the bond between client and therapist) is one of the strongest predictors of successful outcomes.

• Clarifying goals: Your therapist will ask what brought you in, what you’d like to change, and what you hope to achieve.

According to experts, the initial visit allows you and your therapist to get to know each other, establishing trust and outlining expectations. In Lafayette, LA, where local mental health resources are accessible, this session typically lasts 45-60 minutes and sets the tone for future work.

Step-by-Step: What Happens in Your First Counseling Appointment

Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect during your first therapy session in Lafayette.

1. Intake & Paperwork

• Completing forms about your history, symptoms, and goals

• Reviewing confidentiality policies and HIPAA rights

• Signing consent to treatment paperwork

This step ensures your therapist has essential information to tailor your care.

2. Therapist Introduction

Your therapist will:

• Introduce themselves and their background

• Explain their approach (e.g., cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, person-centered)

• Set expectations for sessions (length, structure, frequency)

Tip: Feel free to ask about your therapist’s training and style, it helps establish trust early on.

3. Sharing Your Story

This is often the part people feel most nervous about. Remember:

• You don’t need to share everything at once.

• Start with what feels comfortable.

• The therapist will guide with gentle, open-ended questions.

Examples of questions they might ask:

• “What brought you to therapy now?”

• “Have you tried therapy before?”

• “What are you hoping to get out of this process?”

4. Exploring Your Goals

Therapists often encourage clients to identify short-term and long-term goals.

Examples:

• Reducing anxiety or depression

• Improving relationships

• Coping with trauma

• Building self-esteem

Common Therapy Goals & Approaches

Goal	Therapy Focus
Manage anxiety	Breathing techniques, CBT, relaxation tools
Improve relationships	Communication skills, couples/family therapy
Heal from trauma	EMDR, somatic therapy, trauma-informed CBT
Increase confidence	Self-talk reframing, strengths exploration
Stress management	Mindfulness, lifestyle balance, coping skills

5. Questions You Can Ask

A first session is a two-way street. Bring your own questions, such as:

• How often do you recommend we meet?

• What’s your experience with clients like me?

• How will we know if therapy is working?

6. Session Wrap-Up

• Therapist will summarize key points

• Next steps and scheduling are discussed

• You’ll leave with an idea of what future sessions will look like

Common Feelings in Your First Session

It’s normal to feel:

• Nervousness - is natural, you’re meeting a new professional and sharing sensitive thoughts. Many people feel anxious about being judged, but therapists create a safe, nonjudgmental space designed to support openness and trust.

• Relief - often follows even a brief conversation. Simply talking about struggles in a confidential setting can lighten emotional weight, giving clients a sense of hope that healing and progress are possible.

• Curiosity - arises as clients wonder how therapy unfolds, what techniques may be used, and how quickly results might appear. This healthy anticipation helps build engagement and commitment to the therapeutic journey.

• Vulnerability - is common when sharing personal experiences. Opening up can feel exposing, but this honesty fosters meaningful connection. Most clients soon realize vulnerability builds the foundation for authentic therapist–client relationships.

• Skepticism - may surface, with doubts about whether therapy will “work.” This is normal. Over time, consistent sessions demonstrate therapy’s value, easing uncertainty and strengthening belief in the process of change.

Tip: Anxiety often lessens after the first session, once you realize therapy is a supportive, safe process.

Therapy Session Tips for New Clients

To make the most of your first therapy session:

• Arrive early: Give yourself time to relax.

• Bring notes: Jot down what you want to share or ask.

• Be honest: Therapy works best when you’re open about struggles and goals.

• Manage expectations: The first session is about building understanding, not solving everything right away.

• Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that seeking help is a sign of strength.

Easing Therapy Anxiety

Starting therapy can be intimidating, but there are proven strategies to calm first-session nerves:

• Normalize the experience: Millions attend therapy every year, it’s more common than you think.

• Breathing exercises: Deep breathing or mindfulness before your session helps calm the nervous system.

• Reframe fears: Instead of “What if it’s uncomfortable?” think “This is an investment in my health.”

• Plan a reward: Treat yourself after your session—coffee, a walk, or calling a supportive friend.

Building the Therapist-Client Relationship

A strong relationship with your therapist is crucial.

Basics of a healthy therapeutic relationship:

• Trust: You feel safe to open up.

• Empathy: Your therapist listens without judgment.

• Collaboration: You set goals together.

• Consistency: Regular sessions build progress over time.

Statistic: Studies show the quality of the therapist-client relationship explains up to 30% of therapy outcomes, sometimes more than the specific techniques used.

Conclusion

Your first therapy session in Lafayette can be a gateway to healing once demystified. From the therapy intake session to building therapist-client relationship basics, embracing therapy session tips and easing therapy anxiety empowers the starting therapy process.

If you're ready to begin, Tree of Life Counseling and Consulting in Lafayette, LA, offers expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a first therapy session?

Most first therapy sessions last about 50–60 minutes, allowing time for introductions, intake paperwork, and discussing your concerns. Occasionally an intake appointment may run slightly longer to cover all necessary background information and answer your questions, ensuring both you and your therapist feel comfortable moving forward together.

Do I need to prepare for my first counseling appointment?

Preparation isn’t mandatory, but it can help you feel more confident. Jot down your main concerns, goals, medications, and any questions you’d like to ask. Bringing notes helps organize your thoughts and ensures your therapist receives an accurate picture of what you’re hoping to accomplish in therapy sessions.

Will I have to talk about trauma right away?

No. You completely control the pace of sharing. A therapist will never pressure you to disclose painful details before you’re ready. The first session focuses on building trust, learning about your concerns, and establishing safety. Over time, you can decide when and how to explore deeper experiences comfortably.

What if I don’t “click” with my therapist?

Finding the right therapist is important. If after a few sessions you feel the relationship isn’t a good fit, you’re free to request another provider. Therapists understand this and often provide referrals. Feeling comfortable and respected is essential for effective therapy, so advocating for your needs is encouraged.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. Therapists are legally and ethically bound by confidentiality laws like HIPAA, meaning your personal information and discussions stay private. The only exceptions involve imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, child abuse, or legal requirements. Your therapist will explain these limits at the first session for transparency.