By Amanda Case, LCSW, SAC
During a first visit with your therapist this is a chance for you to get to know one another, to share background about yourself, and to discuss what brings you into therapy. Many people feel anxious about this first visit, this is very normal! Your therapist may ask you to share some details about your life including: childhood and family history, current relationships, mental health history, past treatment experiences, medical history, career and education, spiritual beliefs, and ethnic and/or cultural background.
The following questions will likely be discussed:
- What problems or symptoms bring you in for therapy and how long have you been experiencing these?
- Are you experiencing any life changing events now or recently?
- What are your strengths and how do you currently receive support?
- What are some ways you already take care of yourself and manage stress?
- What are your goals for therapy and how will you know that things are improving?
This is also a time for you to ask your therapist questions. You may want to ask some of the following questions:
- How long does therapy last?
- What is your treatment approach?
- How often should I schedule my appointments?
- What should I do if I am experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency?
- What are the rules about confidentiality?