The first session is where you begin to tell me your story in a safe place at a pace that feels comfortable for you. I will ask questions to better understand some of why you are seeking professional support at this time in your life and a little about your history. I understand that first anythings can cause anxiety, excitement and nervousness. I will do everything I can to make you feel welcome, respected and heard as we start working together. I encourage you to come as you are in that moment. Therapy is a place to be honest with your emotions and struggles and isn’t something you can get wrong.

Some things that tend to help with therapy outcomes:

• Commitment to sessions and applying therapeutic learning between sessions

• Providing feedback on how you are finding sessions and the relationship

• Coming with an understanding that deep changes can take time

• Avoiding too many ‘ad hoc’ holidays as missed sessions interrupt the process

• Planning for an ending. Endings in therapy are really important. Working towards one instead of stopping suddenly is a way to honour your hard work and work through any feelings about endings in general. This best prepares you for whatever comes next for you.