The initial intake session is the first session in the counseling process.
The therapist typically gathers information about you and your needs during the first psychotherapy session. You may review the forms you completed before your first meeting. It might take a few sessions for your therapist to understand your situation and concerns and determine the best approach or course of action.
The first session is also an opportunity to interview your therapist to see if his or her approach and personality will work for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions anytime during your appointment. A good fit with your therapist is critical for psychotherapy to be effective.
During this session, you will have time to meet with your therapist to:
- Express your goals for therapy
- Give a detailed accounting of your history including your current concerns
- Gain an understanding of treatment options and modalities used in therapy
- Collaborate and determine the best plan to proceed and to determine if other services are going to be necessary in the community.
If at the end of the intake, you both decide to work together, an ongoing appointment time will be determined. You will likely meet with your therapist weekly for a session that lasts about 45-50 minutes.
