What to Expect from Therapy
Summary of What to Expect
Your first session is about connection — we’ll explore your story, what brought you here, and see if the fit feels right for both of us.
You set the goals — together we’ll define what you’d like to get out of therapy, knowing these can shift over time as your needs evolve.
You choose what to talk about — whether it’s insomnia, anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or simply needing a safe space, everything that matters to you is welcome.
Privacy is respected — confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy; if you’re a teen, we’ll talk openly about what stays private and what may be shared.
Progress comes from partnership — change builds over time through collaboration, commitment, and the right therapeutic fit.
Setting Goals and Working Together
Early on, we’ll talk about what you want to get out of therapy. Maybe that’s sleeping through the night, feeling less anxious, or reconnecting with your partner. Together we’ll set clear, realistic goals so you know what you’re working toward.
As sessions continue, we’ll check in on those goals and adapt them if needed. Progress isn’t always linear—some weeks may feel lighter, others heavier. That’s all part of the process. What matters is that you feel supported and that you notice gradual changes: sleeping better, handling stress more calmly, or finding more ease in your relationships.
Signs Therapy Is Working
It’s common to wonder how you’ll know if therapy is helping. While every journey is unique, many people notice:
Feeling understood and respected
Learning practical tools to handle stress, sleep, or relationship challenges
A greater sense of calm and confidence
Shifts in how you think, react, or relate to others
Sometimes progress feels subtle, other times it feels like a breakthrough. If you’re ever unsure, we’ll talk about it openly and make adjustments. Therapy is a collaborative process—you’re not doing it alone.
What to Expect from Therapy
Starting therapy is a brave step—and it’s normal to feel a mix of curiosity, hope, and nerves. You might wonder what actually happens in a session, how personal it will get, or how you’ll know if it’s working. This page is here to give you a clear picture of what to expect, so you can feel more at ease before you begin.
A Safe and Compassionate Space
The heart of therapy is a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can show up exactly as you are. You don’t have to have all the words, you don’t have to explain everything perfectly, and you don’t have to hold anything back.
Your sessions are confidential, with only a few rare exceptions related to safety, and our focus is on building trust at your pace. Many people worry about being judged or saying “too much”—but here, you can talk about what matters to you without fear.
Your First Session: Getting to Know You
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your first appointment. Think of it as a starting conversation, not an interrogation. We’ll talk about what brought you here, your life right now, and what you’d like to change. I’ll also answer any questions you have about my approach or how I work.
Some clients like to ask:
What kinds of issues do you have the most experience with?
How do you approach therapy?
What might a typical session look like?
The first session is also your chance to get a feel for whether I’m the right fit for you. Therapy works best when you feel safe and comfortable with your therapist. If something doesn’t feel right, that’s okay—we can adjust or explore options that suit you better.
Talking About What Matters
You might wonder, “What do I even talk about?” The short answer: anything that feels important. That could be sleepless nights, conflict with your partner, work stress, or a vague sense of being “stuck.”
If you’re not sure where to begin, that’s normal too. You don’t have to come prepared with a speech. I’ll guide the conversation with gentle questions, and we’ll go at a pace that works for you. Some days you might have a lot to share, and other days you might not know where to start. Both are okay. Therapy is about meeting you where you are.
Final Thoughts
Therapy isn’t about being “fixed.” It’s about having a space where you can be honest, understood, and supported while you build the life you want. Whether you’re here to get a better night’s sleep, strengthen your relationship, or simply feel like yourself again, therapy can help you get there step by step.
When you’re ready, the next step is simple, just book a free consultation.
