If you’re new to therapy, the idea of even going to counseling is terrifying! The thought of spilling your guts and your darkest secrets can seem so overwhelming it can paralyze you. We get it! As someone who has been in therapy off and on the past 20 years, I totally get why you’d be so nervous. So, here’s a step-by-step guide about what to expect from your first therapy session with us.
What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session with Us
First, check out our About page to find out what we’re all about.
Then, carefully review each therapist’s bio and watch their intro video so that you can determine who seems like a good fit for you. We have 3 locations now to serve you OR you can see any of us virtually if you live in Maryland, DC, South Carolina or North Carolina (this is therapist specific though) (win-win)!
Book your first counseling session
Next, you can make your initial contact with us in any way you feel comfortable! If the phone isn’t your jam, you can email us at hello@empoweredconnections.net, or better yet, just go to our Appointments page and self-schedule an appointment with whichever therapist you connected with most. Once you’ve made your appointment, your therapist of choice will accept your appointment in a short while and you’ll receive an email from us immediately. This email verifies your appointment and also comes with a link to click on and begin our paperless form process.
Once you’ve clicked on your personalized link, make a password you won’t forget (so you can log on anytime you’d like in the future) and begin the easy signing process of reviewing our forms. These typically take about 5-10 minutes. Please take your time to make sure you understand our policies and then electronically sign them. The more information you offer your therapist in the intake questionnaire, the better idea she’ll have of what you’re struggling with and how she can help you.
Now you’re all done with your paperwork, your appointment’s been confirmed, and your therapist has your information. Depending on how soon you made your appointment, you’ll also receive a text reminder of your appointment from our practice that is auto-generated (I love getting these!).
Your first therapy appointment
Now comes the fun part!
Since all your paperwork is already completed, there’s no need to arrive at the office early. We start every appointment on time so don’t worry that we’ll be late and keep you waiting. We value your time as much as we value ours! You’ll walk into our office in Leonardtown, Dunkirk and/or Bethesda and see right away that we’re different than all the rest. We have decorated our offices like our homes, so it feels warm and cozy, complete with our coffee & tea bar, and candies in the waiting room. Help yourself!
Once your therapist comes to grab you, you’ll head to her office and settle in on our comfy couch. She’ll take time during this first session to get to know YOU, what your goals are, what you’re struggling with, what you need help with. This is your time to be honest and let it all rip! This is a safe space where you will not be judged, and where you can just be YOU. How great is that??
Lastly, it’s important to know that we are super focused on the connection between you and your therapist, making sure you feel safe and comfortable, that you like your therapist, and that you WANT to come back. This is more important to us than anything else and we take this seriously. If you ever feel like your experience has been lacking, please send an email to our Practice Manager and we will address it immediately.
Are you ready to begin?
We hope this “guide” helps you feel more comfortable and relaxed about reaching out for support during a difficult time in your life.
Remember, we strive to be part of your tribe and we consistently show you this, session after session. Your trust in us is everything and we don’t take that for granted.
We hope to see you soon!
