Preparing for Your First Therapy Session
Before seeing a mental health provider, knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
Use these tips to help you get the most out of your first visit:
Before your visit:
- Decide the type of visit you prefer.
- For telemedicine visits, choose a safe, private place to have your sessions. Also make sure that connections (phone/WIFI) are working.
During your visit, be ready to:
- Talk about privacy, safety and confidentiality.
- Feel emotional or vulnerable, which is normal. Share your thoughts and feelings with your mental health provider. Helping people through thoughts and emotions is what mental health providers do.
- Answer questions about your mental and physical health, what your childhood was like, relationships with family or friends, or living situation.
- Try coping methods like breathing exercises or positive self-talk. Each session may be different based on your needs.
- Talk to your mental health provider about your progress. They may recommend additional services or changes to your care plan.
After your visit
Some people will see benefits after getting care for a few weeks or months, and some people need this care for longer.
Use these tips to get the best from your mental health care after or in between your visits
- Set reminders for and go to any needed follow-up sessions.
- Follow the guidance from your mental health provider.
- If you are thinking of stopping your medications, or have questions, talk with your primary care provider (PCP) and/or mental health provider before doing so.
- Depending on the medication, it is advised not to stop suddenly. Your provider may need to adjust or decrease your medication slowly to avoid side effects.
- If you are not sure your mental health provider is the right fit, talk to them about your concerns. Your feedback can help them know what is helpful to you and what is not during your sessions.
- If you have questions about your care plan, talk to your mental health provider.