Booking your first session to get help and address the issues you are facing is a brave . Knowing what to expect from a counselling session should help you feel more prepared and less nervous about your first appointment.
In your first session your counsellor will ask you some questions in order to gain an understanding of your current situation. All of the information gained in this initial session will be used to help you in future sessions.
Some questions your Counsellor may ask include:
- Why are you seeking counselling? – You will most likely be asked what it is that has brought you here. This is your opportunity to discuss exactly why you are there and what you hope to gain from counselling.
- What is your current situation and personal history? – It is important to let your Counsellor know your current situation; this includes any day-to-day issues you are facing and even your work and home life. Discussing your personal history will give your counsellor a chance to understand more about you as a person and why these issues may have occurred.
- What symptoms are you experiencing? – Whether these are physical or psychological, it is important to discuss any symptoms with your Counsellor.
It is advised that you be honest and open when answering these questions in order to get the most out of your counselling sessions.
During your counselling experience you should aim to build a trusting relationship with your Counsellor so that you feel safe discussing your worries. If for any reason you do not feel comfortable talking about your problems with your Counsellor it is perfectly acceptable to look for another Counsellor.