#1 The first therapist I find might not be a good fit
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It is okay to try a few therapists to get a feel of their methods. The first few people you meet might not click with you, and that is normal. A therapist-patient relationship is a long-term one and not something that one would want to rush into. It is important to feel comfortable with your therapist, and feel that they are empathetic and kind.
#2 It will get emotional
I’m not ashamed to admit that I cried a lot during my first session. Talking about things that one hasn’t ever said out loud before can get exhausting and emotional, and that is okay. Be kind to yourself after your first session, it can get quite heavy.
#3 They might not have answers
Don’t expect your therapist to know everything in the first session, or to make breakthrough observations about you. But it does feel like walking away with something, even if it is as small as feeling lighter.
#4 There’s homework
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There’s no point of going for therapy if you’re not going to do the dirty work. One will have to reflect on what is discussed in the session, and actively make an effort to change how they approach problem areas. Talking to a therapist isn’t even half of the work, what you do with the insight gained during the sessions is most of it.
#5 Honesty is important
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It is important to be honest to the therapist, because lying to them won’t achieve anything. Even if it means feeling embarrassed and talking about things you’d rather not tell anyone.
#6 The therapist can’t get everything out of you
If you’re like me and approach even a barista with trust issues, then talking about stuff will be tough. Initially in therapy, I spoke every word in a very calculated manner, not willing to give away my power over the conversation or be perceived as vulnerable. It hindered my growth a lot, because it was counterproductive. A therapist may not be able to force things out of you, but it is important to trust them and discuss things.
#7 Your life won’t change suddenly
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I expected to have some major insights right after my first session. That wasn’t the case. My therapist was a real smartie so she was able to identify a pattern in my behaviour that even I didn’t notice. But I didn’t walk away with the knowledge of what I am supposed to do to correct it. That is a process that takes time. I’m still not there, but I am much closer than I was before I started, and that is a big thing.
#8Taking the first step is huge
Therapy is an investment. And taking the first step is the scariest part of it. The fact that I was able to break the momentum of a lifestyle that was taking a toll on my mental health and be open to change is huge. Recognising it is important.
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