What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

Starting therapy is incredibly brave. It's also completely normal to feel a bit nervous before your first appointment – we’re here to make the process as clear and comfortable as possible.

Your First Visit: A Warm Welcome

When you arrive at our practice in Rochester, NY, step into our calming waiting room. Enjoy a complimentary cup of hot tea amidst relaxing music and thriving green plants – designed to help you feel at ease.

Your therapist will greet you personally and show you to their office. The first session involves introductions, reviewing paperwork, and answering any questions you have. We'll then focus on discussing what brings you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. It’s perfectly okay if you’re unsure; your therapist will guide this conversation and offer relevant recommendations.

Towards the end, we'll check in about your experience and help schedule your next appointment.

Building Our Roadmap: The Assessment Phase

We consider the first 2-3 appointments our "getting-to-know-you" or assessment phase. This time is crucial for truly understanding your unique experiences and goals.

Think of it like planning a road trip: you wouldn't just drive off without a map or directions! We take the time to understand your unique landscape so we can choose the most direct and effective route for your healing journey. This thorough assessment ensures we recommend the best evidence-based treatment for your specific needs, not wasting time on less effective approaches. It's like a physician ensuring you get the right treatment – a tonsillectomy won't help an appendix! This focused strategy helps you make progress, faster.

After this assessment, we’ll discuss and agree upon clear goals for our work and decide together which approaches will help you achieve them.

Your Voice Matters: A Collaborative Journey

Your input is crucial. Please ask questions about our methods, or share about the type of approaches you prefer! If a suggested strategy doesn't resonate, let us know – we have many options, and your comfort and participation are key to your success. Therapy is a collaborative journey, and your honesty helps us get the best results in the quickest amount of time.

Ready to take the first step towards healing and growth? We’re here to offer expert guidance as you heal from your past and create the life you want, today.

Book your free consultation call today!