Guides
What Happens at Your First Therapy Session
A first session is mostly a conversation. Your therapist listens, asks questions and helps you decide what you want to work on.
Before the session
After you request an appointment in the client portal, you receive electronic paperwork. Complete it ahead of time, including the insurance section if you plan to use insurance. It must be done by 7 am on the day of your first session, or you will be billed the full fee.
How the hour usually goes
- 1.
Welcome and privacy
Your therapist explains confidentiality and its legal limits, such as safety concerns.
- 2.
What brought you in
The concern, when it started, and what you have tried.
- 3.
Background
Health, sleep, family, work or school, and anything else that shapes the picture.
- 4.
What you want
What would be different if therapy helped.
- 5.
Next steps
A rough plan and how often to meet.
How long it lasts
Therapy sessions typically last about 53 to 60 minutes. Initial sessions are usually weekly, so you and your therapist can build momentum.
Questions your therapist may ask
- What made you decide to reach out now?
- How are you sleeping and eating?
- Who do you have for support?
- Have you been in therapy before, and what helped or did not?
- Are you having any thoughts of harming yourself?
If you are meeting by telehealth
Find a private space where you will not be overheard, use a phone or computer with a camera, and check your connection a few minutes early. You must be located in Texas at the time of every session.
Helpful things to bring
- A short list of what you want help with
- Names and doses of any medications
- Your insurance card
- Questions you want to ask
For a child's first session
With children, many of our therapists meet with parents first, or with parent and child together, then spend time with the child alone. Parents stay involved, especially with young children.
First session questions
What if I do not know what to say?
That is common. Your therapist will guide the conversation.
Will I have to talk about everything right away?
No. You set the pace.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancel at least 24 hours ahead through the client portal to avoid being charged the full fee.
Book your first session
Request an appointment in the client portal, or call or text 832-876-3232 and we will help you choose a clinician.