Beginning Psychotherapy

Once you have selected a therapist for you or your child you will attend your first session, often known as a consultation session. This initial session gives you a chance to get a better feel for the therapist, discuss your concerns and decide if you will work together. You will likely be asked to complete paperwork during or before your first visit. Once you meet the therapist it is helpful to consider how you feel while talking to this person. Do they seem like someone who is interested in understanding and helping in the ways you would like? For you or your family member to obtain the optimal level of benefit from psychotherapy it is important that you feel you can become comfortable and open with the therapist. Of course, it often takes some time to get to know one another.  You may find that after several therapy sessions you are feeling uncomfortable or uneasy. Should that occur it is very important to discuss this with your (or your child’s) therapist. The therapist should respond with openness and curiosity about your feelings and work to discuss the situation with you. Sometimes interpersonal discomfort in the therapy relationship means that you have hit on an important issue for personal growth. Other times it means that this therapist may not be the right fit for you or your family. If your therapist responds negatively, such as with disdain or defensiveness, this is a sign that your therapist may not be competent. In such circumstances it may be best to terminate treatment and find a different therapist. Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and you may have additional questions to ask or concerns. A good therapist will be open and honest with you in answering all of your questions. We wish you the best in your search.