What happens in the first session?

The counsellor will seek to establish a good relationship with you from the outset. Somewhere in this first session you will discuss when and how often you will meet, the cost of each session (this varies), and you will agree together a contract. Usually this is written down for you to take away, and will include matters of confidentiality and the supervision they receive, which ethics and practice framework they use and some brief information about what to do if you have any conerns or wish to make a complaint. If you have any questions for your counsellor you have the right to seek clarification or explanations. In fact your counsellor should encourage you to do this and also answer questions about their qualifications, experience, your therapy or anything you don’t understand.

You will discuss why you are looking for therapy, what you hope to gain or achieve and agree how you will work together. If you feel this relationship is the most appropriate to support you on your journey of discovery then the contract is agreed. It is possible that you may feel it is not and you are completely free to stop and leave. It may be that your counsellor believes that there is a more appropriate therapy available and with your agreement will seek to offer you a referral.