Before the session
There's nothing to prepare. You don't need notes, a clear explanation of what's wrong, or the right words. People often arrive saying "I don't really know where to start", and that's a perfectly good place to start.
If we're meeting online, you'll just need a private space and a stable connection. If we're meeting in person, you'll get clear directions beforehand so the only new thing that day is the conversation itself.
The first few minutes
We say hello and settle in. I'll explain how sessions work, cover the practical things, and give you room to ask anything you like. Feeling nervous at this point is completely normal; most people do, and it tends to ease quickly once we're talking.
What we'll talk about
Whatever has brought you. Some people talk about a specific thing that's happened; others describe a feeling they can't quite name. I'll ask gentle questions to help me understand what life is like for you and what you'd want to be different. You set the pace. There's nothing you must disclose, and nothing is too small or too messy to bring.
Towards the end, we'll talk about whether you'd like to continue, and what working together might look like. There's no obligation either way, and you don't have to decide on the spot.
A word about confidentiality
What you share in counselling stays between us. The main exceptions are the ones every ethical counsellor works to: if I believed you or someone else was at serious risk of harm, or where the law requires disclosure. I'll explain this properly at the start, in plain English, so you know exactly where you stand before you share anything.
After the session
People leave first sessions feeling all sorts of things: lighter, tired, thoughtful, sometimes a little stirred up. All of that is normal. Whatever you feel, it's information, and we can talk about it next time if you choose to continue.
The honest summary
A first session is simply a conversation with someone whose whole job is to listen well. No tests, no judgement, no commitment beyond that hour.
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