Given the prevalence of mental health issues in the current climate, more people than ever are accessing support from mental health professionals…and it is fantastic to see that people are taking the initiative to access this kind of support to help improve their mental well-being. However, there are still a lot of people who battle with mental health struggles everyday who don’t access these kinds of supports due to “fear of the unknown”. As a psychologist, I have found that one of the main reasons people avoid starting therapy is because they don’t know what to expect. Well, I thought I could give you a bit of insight into what the first session with a psychologist generally looks like.

CHECK IN

I generally like to check in with a new client at the start of their first session to see how they’re feeling. It’s a big step for most people to see a psychologist for the first time and the idea of meeting a stranger and sharing personal issues and worries can be quite daunting and overwhelming. As such, I want to make sure that I’m doing everything I can to help allow the client to feel comfortable and at ease.

CONFIDENTIALITY

As most people are aware, psychologists are required to maintain confidentiality regarding any client information. This is often a discussion point quite early in the first session as it generally helps the client feel more at ease knowing their private information is safe and secure. It also allows them to understand any responsibilities or limitations with regard to confidentiality.

INFORMATION AND HISTORY GATHERING

The majority of the first session is based around information gathering which is a collaborative process between you and your psychologist. When collecting information around someone’s presenting concerns, I often encourage the client to start sharing from wherever they feel comfortable. However, I also have a structured list of questions to help me collect information in case the client would prefer the session to be more guided by their clinician. Along with the client’s presenting concerns, I also like to gather information around their family, friends, childhood, work/school, hobbies/interests etc. I find this allows me to understand the client on a deeper level and identify potential contributing factors to their current issues.

GOAL SETTING

Perhaps the most important part of your first session with a psychologist is goal setting. Your goals can be anything…whatever you feel therapy can help you with. It could be to be more social, to manage work-related stress, or improve your mood, or even to investigate a potential diagnosis. This process helps your psychologist to establish a plan moving forward as to how they can best support you in achieving these goals.

WHAT TO DO NOW?

If you have been struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to take the next step in seeking support from a psychologist and give us a call today! Our team of highly skilled and well-experienced Psychologists and mental health professionals are here to help. Call us now and take the first step towards improving your mental health.

How to Access a Psychologist at CQ Psych Services:

• Contact us directly by calling 07 4972 6929 or email admin@cqpsychservices.com.au
• Ask your GP or health professional to refer you to our clinic.
• Come in and see our friendly staff at Shop 1 & 2, 13 Tank Street, Gladstone QLD 4680.
• Visit our website and complete a ‘Request an Appointment’ form and one of our friendly staff will reply to your enquiry. Website: https://cqpsychservices.com.au/

Author: Tom Grainger

Psychologist