What to Expect on the Day One Session of Counselling

It’s very much normal to feel a bit jittery on your first day of counselling. Everyone feels somewhat unsure about meeting their counsellor for the first time. However, it is not going to scare you. This is a positive step toward feeling better and knowing more about yourself.

If you have searched for “mental counselling near me” and have thought of visiting a mental health clinic in Delhi, here’s what would happen during that consultation: 

1. Being Welcomed Warming

When you enter the first session, the counsellor will readily greet you kindly. He/She will make you feel comfortable and safe in a room that may be furnished with a soft and cosy atmosphere, soft lighting, and comfortable chairs. If you are scared, breathe; your counsellor will not judge you but will support you.

2. Knowing More About You

In this first meeting, you will be welcomed to introductions and your counsellor might likely ask a more casual-friendlier question about you. They may also ask why you decided to come for counseling services. Keep in mind that you do not have to relay your entire life story right at the start. Just talk about what is comfortable for you.

3. Right or Wrong Answer

There are no right or wrong answers in counselling; unlike a test at school, there are none. One can sit there, and open up as much as possible without having to fear whether one is being judged. It is fine to refrain from talking about something if one does not feel it is a good time; your counsellor will take it at your pace.

4. Understanding Your Feelings

Your counsellor understands the feelings to be explored if you are anxious, sad, or confused. Sometimes we can’t even tell exactly what it is about until we start to talk about the issue.

And the kind of questions you’re likely to hear: 

• How have you been feeling lately?
• What’s something that’s been on your mind?

Gentle yet probing, these steered questions will help you think over your feelings in such an easy and supportive environment.

5. Setting Small, Realistic Goals

Your counsellor will ask something along the lines of “What do you hope to get out of the sessions” do you aim to:

• Reduce your stress levels?
• Improve the bond with friends or family?
• Know yourself better?

Then the two of you will draw small achievable targets that will be progressively set to march at such goals. 

6. Confidentiality

Your counsellor would also describe to you how confidentiality works: whatever you talk to your therapist about will be kept secret unless there is a serious safety issue (for example, someone could hurt you). Such a rule helps to create trust and safety in the environment. 

7. No Demands to Disclose Everything 

You need not share everything the very first time, as it takes time to build trust. It’s perfectly okay if all you’ve got to give today is a little and more later. Your counsellor knows that it takes time to build trust and will never pressure you into the bond. 

8. Closing on a Positive Note 

Before your session ends, your counsellor may:

• Provide a summary of what you talked about
• Share helpful tips or coping strategies
• Give you some little things to think about before the next session 

Before you leave, feel free to pose your questions. 

The Bottom Line 

Going to a counsellor is like having a guide to help you through tough times. Whether you visit a mental health clinic in Delhi or search for mental counselling near me, the first session is just the beginning of your journey to feeling better. Take it one step at a time, and remember—you are not alone!