A first psychology session is usually more like a conversation where you tell the therapist what is wrong. Your therapist will want to understand you, what has brought you to therapy, and what you hope to change. You do not need to arrive with the perfect words, a complete explanation, a severe problem or all the answers.

You also do not need to talk about anything before you feel ready.

The purpose of the first session is to begin building a safe, supportive relationship and to help you understand what the process might involve. Your therapist should listen with empathy and without judgement.

Some people also worry about being analysed as if the therapist is some out-of-control mind reader. I can assure you that we are not that! The first session more closely resembles a conversation with someone who listens attentively and with empathy.