Starting Therapy, some considerations
- London APC
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Beginning therapy can be daunting. The following guidelines are not a rule of thumb but can help you think about what to expect from initial in person sessions.
Time
Therapy is a valuable investment of your time. If possible, you may want to consider investing in more than one session per week if you can afford it. This can mean you notice the effects more rapidly. Whatever frequency you decide on, there are other things you can do to make sure you make the most of deciding to give therapy some of your precious time.
Think about what you are doing before the session. If possible, make sure you are not tired or rushed and you are as relaxed as you can be. Talking about intimate things can make you feel vulnerable. Feeling nervous is to be expected.
Think about what you will be doing after the session. You may want some quiet time in order to reflect on what has been talked about. Perhaps you may need to be with people in order to have support if you need it.
You may want to incorporate the journey to your session into your therapy ritual. Some people like to have a coffee in the same cafe on the way to your session. Research has shown that rhythmic movement can help with the processing of emotions so walking to your session can be helpful.
Think about any questions you may have about the practical arrangements but at the same time, keep an open mind and let the process unfold.
Therapy works best if it takes place at the same time and place each week. The structure helps organise reflection. We need structure in order to allow new throughts to emerge spontaneously.
Money
Money is important and therapy is a financial investment. It is important that you agree a fee that is sustainable for you over a reasonable amount of time. Therapy works is slowly and incrementally.
Ask when your therapist will invoice you for sessions. Many therapists charge for all missed sessions. This is partly because they set aside a regular time for you and need to get paid. It also means that you recognise the importance of regular sessions.
Expectations
Try to have the courage to be as honest as you can about your thoughts, feelings and behaviour even if shame gets in the way. Growth comes from being prepared to sit in the discomfort that can bring. A good therapist will attempt to build rapport with you. If the relationship makes you uncomfortable, try to explore this with your therapist in the first instance. Like any relationship, there may be some bumps in the road but over time, discomfort can be part of a growing ability to reflect on difficulties.
Enjoy the process if you can …..
Good luck
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