Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful step toward healing and self-understanding. At Epiphany Counselling and Consulting, we want you to feel safe, supported, and informed right from the beginning. Whether you’re facing anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, or something you can’t quite name, you’re not alone. That’s why we’ve written this short guide to help you feel more prepared for your first counselling session.
1. You Do Not Need to Have Everything Figured Out
One of the biggest myths about therapy is that you need to know exactly what to say or have a clear problem to solve. That is simply not true. Many people start counselling feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or even stuck. Your counsellor is trained to help guide the conversation, especially if things feel hard to put into words. There is no “right way” to begin. Just showing up is already a meaningful first step.
2. Getting to Know You
The first session is a chance for your counsellor to get a better sense of who you are. They might ask about your current challenges, your background, or what brought you in. You do not need to go into detail unless you feel comfortable. This is also your chance to get a feel for the counsellor’s style and see if it feels like a good fit. Building trust takes time, and the first session is just the beginning of that relationship.
3. Setting the Foundation
You will likely go over things like confidentiality, appointment structure, and what you hope to get out of therapy. Your counsellor may share how they work and what kind of approaches they use. They might also ask how you prefer to receive support; some people like direct feedback, others just want space to talk. This helps you and your counsellor create a shared understanding. It is about building a space that feels safe and respectful for both of you.
4. You Might Feel Emotional
It is common to feel emotional during your first session, especially if you are talking about something difficult for the first time. You might feel anxious, tearful, or unsure about what is coming up, and that is okay. Individual Counselling is one of the few places where you are allowed to feel everything without judgment. Emotions are not something to be fixed or rushed away. They are part of the process and often a sign that something important is being touched. Your feelings are always welcome.
5. Therapy Looks Different for Everyone
There is no one way therapy should look, and your journey will be unique to you. Some people come to counselling for short-term support during a life change, while others are looking for deeper, ongoing work. You get to decide what pace works for you and what areas you want to focus on. As your life changes, so might your goals in therapy. The most important thing is that your experience feels supportive and aligned with your needs, not someone else’s idea of how it should go.
6. You Are in Control
Therapy is not something being done to you, it is something you take part in. You get to decide what you want to talk about, how much you want to share, and when you are ready to go deeper. A good counsellor will never push or pressure you. Instead, they will follow your lead and support you with care and curiosity. Your voice matters in every session, and you are allowed to take your time.
Counselling Services We Offer
Epiphany Counselling offers support for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and more. Whether you are looking for individual therapy, couples counselling, or family support, we tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. All sessions are offered virtually, making it easier to access care from the comfort and privacy of your own space. Our approach is compassionate, client-centred, and grounded in real connection.
Conclusion
Your first counselling session does not need to be perfect. It is a beginning, not a test. With the right support, you can begin to feel safer in your thoughts and more at home in yourself. If you are thinking about starting therapy and still have questions about our services, we are here to help. Feel free to contact us anytime, we would be honoured to walk with you on this path.
