Your First Session: Grounding, Not Intimidating

Many people assume they have to show up to therapy “prepared” with a story, a goal, or a list of symptoms. But the reality is simpler: just show up as you are.

During your first session, your therapist will gently guide the conversation by asking questions like:

• What brought you here today?

• How are you coping right now?

• Have you ever been in therapy before?

• What would you like to get out of this experience?

There are no right or wrong answers. The goal of the first session is simply to get to know you—your story, your values, your hopes, and your pain points. Some clients cry. Some feel relief. Others just need to feel safe before they open up. All of that is normal.

You are not required to talk about anything you're not ready to share. Our therapists respect your pace. You set the boundaries. We follow your lead.

"I walked in thinking I had to pretend everything was fine. But my therapist helped me take the mask off without pressure or shame. That changed everything."— David R., Hackensack, NJ