What to expect from your first appointment

Seeing a psychologist for the first time or meeting a new psychologist can be daunting. You might be feeling nervous or anxious about sharing personal information or discussing uncomfortable topics. You might be feeling excited or relieved to begin the journey to understanding your mental health better. It is completely normal to feel a variety of emotions when starting therapy.

If you have booked your first psychology appointment, well done! You have taken a massive step towards improving your mental health.

The purpose of your first psychology appointment is to get to know you and explore what has brought you to therapy. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Your psychologist will provide a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for you to discuss your current life, history, and goals for therapy.

In this appointment, your psychologist will explain confidentiality within therapy. A few limits to confidentiality, such as safety concerns, will be discussed at the beginning of your appointment. Information about session length, pricing and modes (e.g., in person or telehealth) will also be provided.

Another purpose of your first psychology appointment is to get to know your psychologist to ensure you feel comfortable working with them. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about their clinical experience, therapeutic style and treatment approaches. As building a strong therapeutic relationship is important, you are encouraged to share any concerns you have with the therapeutic process. Your psychologist will address these concerns with empathy and understanding.

Towards the end of your first psychology appointment, an initial therapeutic plan will likely be discussed. Your psychologist will provide recommendations for session frequency and therapeutic approach. You are encouraged to ask questions and collaborate on the initial plan.

If you are interested in booking your first psychology appointment, please feel welcome to contact our lovely Client Experience Officers on 02 9587 3887 or info@mindconnect.sydney