According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), more than 1.8 million adults in Pennsylvania are living with a mental health condition—a figure more than six times the population of Pittsburgh. If you believe you’re alone, understand that you’re not. And therapy is an excellent way to start taking care of your mental health.

Starting therapy is a meaningful step toward improving your mental health. New Directions Mental Health understands that the first session can feel overwhelming. Our team at our Greensburg office is here to support you with compassionate care and practical tools, including mental health counseling in the Greensburg area, to help you feel more at ease.

What to expect in therapy

Therapy is a collaborative process where you and your therapist work together to understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In your first session, your therapist will ask questions to learn about your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This information helps create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Sessions typically last an hour and may occur weekly or biweekly, depending on your preferences and the therapist’s recommendations. Therapy can involve discussing past experiences, developing coping strategies, and setting achievable goals.

How to prepare for your first therapy session

Preparing for your first therapy session can help you feel more comfortable and maximize your time with your therapist. Here are some steps you can take:

• Reflect on your goals: Think about what you hope to achieve through therapy. This could include managing anxiety, improving relationships, or developing coping skills.
• Gather relevant information: Be ready to discuss your medical history, any previous therapy experiences, and current medications. This information provides context for your therapist.
• Write down questions: If you have questions about the therapy process or your therapist’s approach, jot them down beforehand so you don’t forget to ask during the session.
• Plan your schedule: Ensure you have enough time before and after the session to avoid feeling rushed. This can help you arrive relaxed and have time to process the session afterward.
• Be open and honest: Sharing your thoughts and feelings honestly allows your therapist to understand you better and provide effective support.

Taking these steps can help you make the most out of your therapy sessions and foster meaningful progress on your mental health journey. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your active participation is crucial in achieving positive outcomes.

Additional tips for maximizing therapy sessions

Therapy sessions can be powerful tools for self-discovery and growth. Here are some additional tips to help you get the most out of each session:

Arrive early

Arriving a few minutes early for your appointment allows you time to get comfortable and easily complete any required paperwork.

Manage expectations

It’s normal not to feel immediate relief after the first session. Therapy is a process, and progress takes time.

Communicate preferences

If you have preferences about communication or therapy methods, share them with your therapist. They may adjust to make the experience more helpful for you.

Be open

Be honest and open with your therapist. This is a safe space to express your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.

Take notes

Bring a notebook or use a note-taking app to capture key insights and strategies during sessions. This simple habit ensures you retain and apply the valuable information discussed.

Practice self-care

Therapy can bring up difficult emotions, so it’s important to take care of yourself outside of sessions. Engage in activities that bring you joy and practice mindfulness techniques to cope with any challenging thoughts or feelings.

Apply what you learn

Therapy is not just about talking. It’s also about taking action and making positive changes in your life. Take the insights and strategies discussed in therapy and apply them daily.

Find your path to healing with New Directions Mental Health

Our experienced, compassionate therapists are here to support your healing journey. Our therapists support clients managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns through evidence-based approaches tailored to each person’s needs. New Directions Mental Health is here for you—call us today at 724.374.7414 to schedule your appointment.

For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.