What to Expect in the First Few Weeks of Counseling

You’ve made it through your first therapy session. You answered a lot of questions, told a part of your story, and met the person who will be your guide on this journey. So, what happens now? The first few weeks of counseling are a unique and important phase. It’s a time for building a foundation, establishing a connection, and setting the stage for the deeper work to come.

At Televero Behavioral Health, we want to help you understand this initial process so you can feel more comfortable and confident. It’s normal to feel a mix of hope and uncertainty. Knowing what to expect can help you to trust the process and stay engaged, even if you don’t see dramatic changes right away.

Building Rapport: The Therapeutic Alliance

The single most important goal of the first few sessions is to build what’s known as the “therapeutic alliance.” This is the trusting, collaborative relationship between you and your therapist. Research has shown that the strength of this alliance is one of the best predictors of a successful therapy outcome, regardless of the specific type of therapy being used.

This means that in the beginning, a lot of the focus will be on simply getting to know each other. Your therapist will work to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. You, in turn, will be getting a feel for your therapist’s style. Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Do you feel like they “get” you? This period of building rapport is not just small talk; it is the essential groundwork for all future progress.

The Intake and Assessment Continues

While the first session is the main “intake” appointment, your therapist will likely continue to gather information over the first few weeks. They are still putting together the puzzle of your life story, your strengths, and your challenges. They might ask more detailed questions about your past, your relationships, and the specific problems that brought you to therapy.

This can sometimes feel a bit like you are just talking about the problems without fixing them yet. Try to be patient with this phase. A good therapist, like a good doctor, needs to do a thorough assessment before they can recommend a course of treatment. They are listening for patterns, identifying underlying issues, and formulating a plan that is tailored to you.

Starting to Set Goals

During these early weeks, you and your therapist will begin to work together to clarify your goals for therapy. Your therapist might ask, “If therapy is successful, what would be different in your life six months from now?” This conversation helps to move from a vague sense of “I want to feel better” to a more concrete set of objectives.

These goals will become your roadmap for treatment. They will guide the focus of your sessions and give you a way to measure your progress over time. This is a collaborative process—your therapist will bring their clinical expertise, and you will bring your knowledge of yourself and what you want for your life.

It’s Okay to Feel Uncomfortable

Therapy involves talking about things that are often difficult and painful. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions in these first few weeks, including sadness, anxiety, or even a bit of emotional exhaustion after a session. This is often called a “vulnerability hangover.” It doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working. In fact, it’s often a sign that you are starting to touch on the things that truly matter.

The first few weeks of counseling are about planting seeds. You are building a relationship, clarifying your goals, and creating a safe space to do the work of healing. You may not see the sprouts right away, but you are tilling the soil and preparing the ground for growth. Trust the process, and trust in the courage you showed by starting.

Key Takeaways

• The first few weeks of therapy are focused on building a trusting relationship, or “therapeutic alliance,” with your therapist.
• Your therapist will continue to gather information to get a complete understanding of your situation before diving into deep therapeutic work.
• You will work collaboratively with your therapist to set clear, meaningful goals that will guide your treatment.
• It’s normal to feel a range of emotions, including discomfort, as you begin to open up. This is often a sign that the process is working.

Ready to take the first step? We can help. Get started with Televero Health today.