What to expect during the first session:

We will start by going over intake forms and talking about the counseling process. After the necessary first session “housework” we will start getting to know each other. If you are worried about what to talk about, it is helpful to think about what it bothering you the most on a day to day basis and how you would like things to be different.

Coming to counseling for the first time can feel awkward. Counseling is unlike most everything else. It is different than talking to family members, because your counselor is not affected by the same things. It is different than talking to friends, because counseling is confidential. Often, our friends have not been through what we are currently going through, so it is helpful to talk to someone who understands. It is different from school and work, because you are not graded or expected to perform.

Counseling is a time to process and sort through the things that you want to talk about in a confidential and understanding place.