The first session is the beginning of the therapeutic relationship. You don’t need to cover everything or get everything “right”. Your role is to create a safe, clear and welcoming space where the client can begin to share their story.
Before the session
• Have your client agreement / contract and confidentiality information ready
• Make sure your space is private, comfortable and free from interruptions
• Give yourself a few quiet minutes to arrive and ground yourself
During the session
• Welcome the client and explain how you work
• Go through confidentiality and its limits
• Clarify practicalities such as fees, cancellations and contact between sessions
• Explore what has brought the client to counselling and what they hope for
• Notice pace and allow space rather than trying to gather everything at once
• Check that the client has an opportunity to ask questions
At the end
• Let the client know when the session is coming to an end
• Agree any next steps or future appointment
• Complete your notes and store them securely
• Take a moment to reflect and reset before your next client
A gentle reminder
The first session isn’t about proving yourself as a therapist. Be present, be curious and trust your training. The relationship begins with how the client experiences being with you.