Seeking Counseling Services in Miami? Here’s How to prepare for your first therapy appointment.
The National Institute of Health estimates that over 57 million Americans have mental health struggles. Addressing our mental health needs is essential for our overall well-being. Yet, we know that taking that step is not always easy. We’re humbled by clients like you, who start therapy and are committed to their personal growth. You probably already know this, but you are a brave soul. Doing this work is not only for you but for all who come in contact with you and for humanity at large. Thank you! We are committed to you as well! We are here to see you blossom! I know it sounds cheesy, but we mean it. We promise to give you our best so you can have your best life. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your first session.
Before your therapy appointment
Fill out the intake paperwork. Be as thorough as possible, please. It gives us a better understanding of your needs and can guide us in asking more pertinent questions to meet your goals.
Schedule your appointment at a time that is convenient for you. Determine if you’d like time to reflect and gather your thoughts before the session or if you prefer being spontaneous and following your gut. If you rather prepare for sessions, carve out time before sessions to jot down a few points. Setting aside time will help you take advantage of the session time. Remember, it’s ok to show up and lean in with your therapist’s guidance. Freud said it best: “The subconscious mind is always trying to become conscious.” Whatever is relevant will surface once you’re ready to face it. Trust the process.
Lastly, consider logistical things that could help reduce your stress by preparing in advance. We recommend that if you’re coming in person, you get directions to our office to get a rough estimate of how long it will take you to get here. Then, factor in traffic so you know when to leave. If, on the other hand, your sessions are online, just make sure you download the Spruce app and allow notifications. Get comfortable and find a place where you have privacy and can stay for the entire session. Your therapist will then be able to call you there at the time of your appointment.
During your therapy appointment
Be comfortable! No need to dress formally, wear something comfortable and cozy instead. Stay hydrated, grab a water bottle, or ask us to make you tea or coffee. If you need to charge your phone or turn it off, go ahead and do so right at the beginning of the session. Plug it and let it do its thing while we talk. If you’re home, we’re sorry, we cannot make you coffee/tea. But you got no traffic, lucky you! We recommend you create an environment similar to what we’ve just described so you feel supported and cared for during your session.
If you’re staying home, make sure to have privacy, that you’re alone in a room where you can speak freely without anybody listening to you. We recommend you use headphones and turn off notifications before sessions. We kindly ask you to sit comfortably but not to lie down. Seating up helps us pay attention and remain focused. Bring a blanket, water, or anything that helps you feel comfortable throughout the session.
Open up as best you can. We know for some of us, trust doesn’t come easy. You don’t have to say everything during your first session, and that’s fine. You’ll build trust and rapport as time goes on. You will feel more at ease sharing as you get to feel safer. It’s ok to say that you don’t want to talk about a topic at any point during therapy. We respect that and are not here to push you. We’ll just help you become curious and better understand your discomfort.
Lastly, ask questions. Your therapist will cover housekeeping things such as cancelation policy, privacy, duty to protect, etc. Ask clarifying questions so you both have clear expectations moving forward. We, from time to time, say things that could be confusing. Please help us, help you! If your therapist says something you don’t understand, stop them and kindly ask them to explain what they mean. If you don't understand something, don’t stay confused, ask. The only wrong questions are the ones you don’t ask.
After your therapy appointments
As you think of when to schedule your appointments, consider how you process information and emotions. Therapy can be challenging sometimes and you may not be ready to return to real life right after sessions. So, if you like to reflect and let things sink in, schedule your sessions accordingly. Think of the rest of your day and consider what you have to do after your session is over. Allowing time between therapy and resuming any activities is sometimes needed and often beneficial.
It is wise to give yourself time to reflect and sit with whatever comes up after sessions, even if it’s not right away. Perhaps you journal, go on a walk, meditate, etc. I encourage you to reflect on the process and content of the sessions. We are eager to retain tips, information, feedback, etc. Yet, reflecting on our process is often overlooked but so important. Pay attention to how you felt before and after the session. Did you notice any shifts in your mood? What brought it on? Was there anything your therapist said that you found particularly challenging to hear? Were there any inconsistencies between what you said and what you wanted to say? Was it difficult for you to be authentic in session, etc? Share your insight with your therapist next time you see them. They will love it. I promise!
Give it time! It’s normal not to have a breakthrough after your first session. Therapy is like the earth’s movement, you don’t notice it moving yet, the sun rises every morning. If you put in the work, one day, you’ll catch yourself breaking a bad habit, taking a step that used to be terrifying, or feeling a sense of peace and lightness that you’ve never felt before. You may not know what/how it’s happening, but it does. One last thing to keep in mind, research indicates that your relationship with your therapist is one of the most significant indicators of therapeutic success. So, if it’s not working, let us know. We want you to find the person you can truly connect with and who can help you get where you want to be. Our intake coordinator for our Miami therapy practice does a great job matching clients with a therapist who meets their needs. However, she doesn’t get it right all the time. We survey all our clients after their first therapy session to make sure they feel comfortable with their therapist and are eager to move forward. We are happy to suggest other therapists if clients think their first therapist was a good fit. At Psych Blossom, we strive to meet your counseling and human needs. Providing a safe, warm & welcoming environment are core principles in our practice.
I hope this article was helpful as you prepare to seek therapy in Miami or anywhere in Florida, regardless if you’re trying therapy for the first time or if you’re coming back after a previous experience. Being mindful of all the logistical and emotional pieces makes a difference. We’re committed to helping you find a therapist near you to connect with and make the changes that could transform your life. Contact us using the button below if you have any questions or are ready to start therapy in Miami. We’re here to help!
