It is almost the end of the first month of a new year. Research shows many of us have set aside our resolutions and returned to our December lives. However, when we let go of our New Year’s resolutions, it doesn’t mean we let go of our desire to be better people. This is where counseling can come in.

While many people are very comfortable with the idea of counseling, many others are not. They feel if they go to counseling, they may be seen as “crazy” or weak. I strongly believe it is quite the opposite. If someone is “crazy,” they wouldn’t recognize they needed help; asking for help is one of the hardest things we can do. It is not an act of weakness; it is an act of strength.

So you’ve decided you want to go to a counselor for help. What can you expect on the first visit? It can vary greatly depending on which counselor you see. Today I will tell you what you can expect at your first visit with me.

You will be asked to fill out a short form to collect your general information: name, address, date of birth, emergency contact, etc. You will also be given a paper titled “Counselor-Client Agreement” to read through. In this paper, I tell you a bit about the counseling process, my fees, and rules about confidentiality. If you agree to the terms, you sign the sheet. That’s all for paperwork!

Next we sit down together and we begin talking. You may want to start talking and tell me what’s going on in your life. I may have specific questions to ask. The main goal in this first session is getting to know one another. It is very important to feel a connection to your counselor, and I tell clients that if after three meetings they don’t feel I am a good fit for them, I will help them find someone else to see. All counselors have different personalities, so you may have to look around a bit.

As you begin sharing your story with me, I will ask questions for clarification and start to build a picture of your life in my head. I will listen for themes that may pop up several times; I will listen for the way you see your self, others and the world.  It often flows like a regular conversation. I have a laid-back personality that allows people to feel safe sharing. I love hearing my clients tell their stories.

At the end of the session I collect payment and we set up another appointment if you wish to come back. The session lasts about 50 minutes.

It is very simple, and I work hard to make my office a calming space for everyone who walks through the doors. (I even have toys you can play with while you talk to me if that helps you feel more comfortable!)

If you’re thinking about counseling but have been hesitant, I encourage you to call or email me, and we can set up an appointment.