What to expect and how counselling helps
Most people coming to me for counselling for the first time have questions about what happens when they arrive for a psychotherapy session at my clinic in Kildare. They may have an impression of therapy from TV and other media that is inaccurate, or has become out-dated over the years. It’s not complicated, so if you’re wondering, this is what happens.
Options for attending your therapy session
You are welcome to attend your therapy sessions in person at my clinic in the peaceful countryside near Prosperous, County Kildare. Many people find that making the journey to the therapy room - and having a dedicated space away from the demands of everyday life - helps them to settle into the process and get the most from their sessions.
I also offer online sessions via Zoom or telephone. These can be a good option if you live further away, have limited access to transport, or simply feel more comfortable meeting from your own home. Together, we can choose the format that best supports your needs and circumstances.
Your first counselling sessions
We’ll start with a brief intake interview, just to get the basics, then we’ll talk about what brought you to therapy. Everyone comes to counselling because there’s something that they want to change or learn how to cope with. It might be a past trauma, you might have lost someone close to you, maybe you’re not happy with your relationship with food or perhaps you’re finding it hard to face another week at work. I won’t judge, I’ll listen. I’ll accept you for who you are and I’ll do my best to put you at ease.
Once you’ve shared your story and given voice to your concerns (this is often the first couple of sessions) then I’ll work as your guide to help you to get you where you want to go as a person, to help you rebuild your faith in yourself and develop a foundation of confidence and self awareness that you can rely on when life throws up challenges in the future.
How long the whole process takes depends on a lot of factors, however it’s always my aim to help you to shed what’s holding you back so you can live your best life.
All that said, it’s completely normal to be nervous or anxious before attending a therapy session, especially your first one. Feel free to call if you have any questions before your first session.
“Like the ripples from the smallest drop of water, the smallest of changes in our lives can grow to bring about the greatest rewards”