What to Expect During a Therapy Intake Session
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Therapy is a collaborative process between you and your therapist, where you work together to identify and address the issues that are causing you distress. The first therapy session is usually an assessment or evaluation session, where the therapist gathers information about your background, mental health history, and current concerns. It is an opportunity for you to get to know your therapist, ask any questions you may have, and for your therapist to gain an understanding of your needs and goals for therapy.
The first therapy session usually begins with the therapist introducing themselves and the therapy space. They will tell you that everything said within the session is confidential per HIPPA policy, with the exception of legal and physical safety matters. They will then ask you some questions to get to know you better. These questions may include:
What brings you to therapy? Your therapist may ask you to describe the issues that have led you to seek therapy. This could include symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.
What is your current situation like? Your therapist may ask you about your current circumstances, such as your living situation, employment, and relationships.
What is your mental health history? Your therapist may ask you about any previous mental health concerns you have had, including diagnoses, treatments, and medications.
What are your goals for therapy? Your therapist may ask you what you hope to achieve from therapy. This could be a specific goal, such as reducing anxiety or improving relationships, or a more general goal, such as increasing overall well-being.
What are your coping mechanisms or self-care activities? Your therapist may ask you about the strategies you use to cope with stress, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Which identities do you hold or are important to you? Your therapist will ask you about any gender, sexual, cultural, or spiritual identities you hold and that will be important to keep in mind during the counseling process.
As the session progresses, your therapist may ask additional questions to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your concerns. They may also ask you to elaborate on certain topics or share more detail about specific situations or experiences. It is important to remember that therapy is a confidential and non-judgmental space, so you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
Towards the end of the session, your therapist will likely summarize the information you have shared and discuss with you their initial thoughts and impressions. They may also provide you with some information about what you can expect from future sessions and any recommendations or interventions they may suggest.
It is essential to remember that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and what works for one person may not work for another. Your therapist may use different therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), or person-centered therapy, depending on your needs and goals. They may also suggest additional resources, such as support groups or self-help guides, to supplement your therapy sessions.
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