The First Therapy Session
Thomas Goenczi, Lookout contributor — There is something genuinely palpable and ineffable about embarking on something for the first time. Stepping forward and embracing uncertainty, a willful deployment into the oceans of the unknown. In essence, to go into direct combat with fears. Often before the first therapy session, the individual becomes aware of a particular area they struggle with. Once the first session is booked, a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions whips around, ranging from adrenaline-inducing excitement to existential dread. These waves of excitement and nervousness become more frequent the closer you get to the office. Some people deliberate what they’re going to say, how they’re going to say it, and what the whole process will be like. These are all common experiences before a session, which may culminate in the waiting room. The waiting area can be a great place to gather yourself and reset. Take subtle deep conscious breaths from the diaphragm and slowly exhale a few times. This is also the place to set an intention for your session. You hear the footsteps approaching. The door opens, and you greet your therapist for the first time. You find your seat, and after going over confidentiality and informed consent, your first session finally begins. Some people struggle to know where to start, and others have been waiting to get this off their chest for a long time. Try to be authentic to yourself, don’t overthink it, just be. After about 50 minutes, your counsellor discreetly checks the time and announces the session has ended. Emotions and thoughts thunder within. Sometimes people feel a little raw after the first session, some relieved, some confused, and sometimes people get this little spark and high afterward. What’s significant here is identifying the feeling and finding the reason for it. Maybe you feel...
