What Happens in Your First Counselling Session?

Starting counselling can feel like a big step, particularly if you have never spoken to a counsellor before. You might wonder what you are supposed to talk about, whether you need to prepare anything, or even whether your problems are ‘big enough’ for counselling.

The first thing to know is that you don’t need to arrive knowing exactly what to say.

Before your first session

I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation before you begin. This gives us an opportunity to have an initial conversation about what has brought you to counselling, what you might be hoping for, and whether I might be the right counsellor for you.

It also gives you the chance to ask questions and get a sense of whether you feel comfortable talking with me.

There is no expectation that you tell me your whole story during this call.

What happens when we first meet?

Your first counselling session is an opportunity for us to begin getting to know one another.

We might talk about what has been happening in your life, what has led you to seek counselling now, and what you would like to be different.

Some people arrive knowing exactly what they want to talk about. Others simply know that something doesn’t feel right.

Both are completely fine.

You don’t need to prepare a speech or work out exactly where to begin. We can work that out together.

Do I have to talk about everything straight away?

No.

Building trust takes time, and you remain in control of what you choose to talk about.

There may be experiences that feel difficult, painful or uncomfortable to discuss. You do not have to tell me everything during your first session.

My role isn’t to push you into talking about something before you feel ready.

What if I don’t know what to say?

This is a common concern.

Counselling isn’t an interview, and there isn’t a list of correct answers you need to give.

There may even be moments when neither of us is speaking. Silence can be part of counselling too.

As an integrative counsellor, I adapt the way I work to the individual rather than expecting everyone to fit into one particular way of doing therapy.

We can explore what is happening at a pace that feels manageable for you.

Is counselling confidential?

What you share in counselling is treated confidentially. You can read more about the practical boundaries of confidentiality in my Counselling Agreement.

There are some important limits to confidentiality, particularly where there are serious concerns about safety or where disclosure is legally required. I explain these arrangements so that you understand how confidentiality works before we begin working together.

You can also ask me questions about confidentiality at any point.

What happens after the first session?

Towards the end of the session, we can talk about how you found the experience and whether continuing counselling feels right for you.

Counselling is generally weekly, although this can be discussed depending on your circumstances.

Counselling sessions can take place face-to-face at my counselling practice in Lowestoft, online, by telephone, or through Walk & Talk counselling.

A standard counselling session lasts 60 minutes.

You don’t have to be in crisis to have counselling

People come to counselling for many different reasons.

You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship difficulties or the effects of difficult experiences. You may be exploring ADHD or autism, struggling with self-esteem, or simply feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected from yourself.

Sometimes there isn’t one obvious problem.

You may simply feel that something needs to change.

Counselling can provide a confidential space to begin understanding what is happening and explore what you might need.

Taking the first step

Choosing a counsellor is personal, and it is important that you feel comfortable with the person you are speaking to.

If you are considering counselling, you are welcome to arrange a free 15-minute telephone consultation with me.

There is no obligation to book counselling afterwards. It is simply an opportunity for us to talk, for you to ask questions, and to see whether working together feels right for you.

Arrange your free 15-minute telephone consultation

Leon Day
Integrative Counsellor
Lowestoft & Online