Booking a first session can feel like the hardest part. Many people tell us they were not sure what would happen, or whether they would need to say everything at once. You will not. Here is what a first session usually looks like.
Before you arrive
You do not need to prepare. Some people like to jot down a few notes about what has been on their mind, or questions they want to ask, and that is fine. We will send you forms to fill in before you come. Our website never asks about your health, so you share that with your psychologist, in the room.
Plan to arrive a few minutes early. Our psychology rooms are at the back of the building, so they are quiet and private.
How the session usually goes
Your psychologist will start by explaining how the session works, including how privacy and notes are handled. You can ask any questions you like about this.
Then they will invite you to talk about what brought you in, in whatever order feels natural. They might ask about your day-to-day life, sleep, work, relationships and what you have tried so far. You can take your time, and you can pause.
Toward the end, you will usually talk about what you would like to work on, and how often you might meet.
What you do not have to do
- You do not have to tell your whole story in one go.
- You do not have to answer a question if you would rather not.
- You do not have to book a second session on the spot.
- You do not have to have a clear reason for coming.
A first session is partly about whether the fit feels right. It is fine to take a few days to think about it.
After the session
Some people feel lighter afterwards. Others feel tired, because talking through things takes energy. Both are common. It can help to leave a little quiet time afterwards, such as a short walk, before going back to work.
If we agree on a plan, you might try a small skill or idea between sessions. It is never compulsory, and you can change the plan or the pace whenever you like.
When to get help
Seek help if your worries, low mood or stress have been getting in the way of sleep, work or relationships for a couple of weeks or more. You do not need to wait until things feel unmanageable.
If you are thinking about harming yourself, or you are worried about how you will cope right now, contact your local emergency service or go to the nearest emergency department right away. If you are worried about someone else, stay with them and get urgent help.
You can read about psychology at Fernway or book an appointment when you feel ready.
This article is general information, not personal health advice. It cannot take account of your own history. See a registered clinician about your situation.
