Free 30-minutes Consult w a Therapist… what’s that about?
We get it!
The first time you meet a potential counsellor can be awkward as shit!
“Thirty minutes seems too rushed to explain all that is happening in my life!”
Or
“Thirty minutes seems like a long time because I could barely summon up the energy to google counsellor near me!”
Either way… yes! Being apprehensive about this process makes complete sense. It is very strange meeting someone for the first time and being unsure with how much to share and what taking that first step looks like.
Here is the good news!
The counsellor you are meeting has done this many times and is prepared for whoever sits across from them seeking help. Whether you are feeling ‘low’ and ‘quiet’ or have a million things to share, they are ready to go.
The best thing to do is to show up as your authentic self and see where that thirty minutes goes, keeping in mind how you are feeling as you are sharing or asking questions. Do you feel understood, connected, and valued as a unique individual? GREAT!
Or does something feel ‘off’? This is also… GREAT!
This may seem strange, but counsellors should want what is best for you… even if that means it is not them who will walk on this journey with you! Most counsellors have a community of colleagues… if the fit doesn’t feel right, they may have a recommendation for you!
At the end of the 30 minutes, you shouldn’t feel any pressure, and you should take some time to see how that time sat with you.
This is really important because there is a bunch of research that shows one of the most important indicators of how successful therapy is, is your relationship with your counsellor.
So, come prepared… come with nothing at all.
The first session is all about getting to know your counsellor and your counsellor getting to know you.