Starting Therapy: Your Journey Begins Here
- Greenstone Counseling
- Jul 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 20
Starting therapy is a brave and powerful step toward healing. However, for many, it can feel unfamiliar and intimidating. At Greenstone Counseling, we understand that the unknown can be daunting. That’s why we strive to make your first session clear, welcoming, and judgment-free.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, working through trauma, or simply feeling stuck, your first session lays the foundation for a therapeutic relationship built on safety and trust. Here's what you can expect—and why it matters.
What Is the First Therapy Session?
Your first therapy session is often called an intake session or initial consultation. This time is crucial for your therapist to get to know you, understand your concerns, and start building a collaborative plan for care.
During this session, you might be asked about:
Your current struggles (anxiety, grief, relationship issues, etc.)
Your mental health history
Major life events or trauma
What you hope to achieve through therapy
Most importantly, the first session is about establishing a connection. It helps you feel heard, safe, and in control of your healing process.
How It Works at Greenstone Counseling
At Greenstone Counseling, we approach every first session with warmth and flexibility. You set the pace. You don’t have to share your full story right away—we’ll meet you where you are.
We’ll also explain our approach to therapy, which may include:
Evidence-based techniques like CBT, EMDR, or DBT
A trauma-informed lens
Support for faith transitions, shame resilience, or identity exploration
Flexible options for in-person or telehealth sessions
"You are the expert on your life. My job is to help you make meaning of it," says one of our lead clinicians.
By the end of your first session, you'll have a clearer sense of what your therapy journey could look like, along with your next steps.
What Research Says About the First Session
Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy—not just the method used. This begins with the first session.
A study in Psychotherapy Research (Horvath et al., 2011) found:
“The quality of the therapist–client alliance in early sessions predicts successful outcomes across nearly all therapy types.”
That’s why we prioritize empathy, authenticity, and collaboration from the moment you walk in.
How It Can Help: Beyond the First Hour
While one session won't “solve” everything, it can:
Offer immediate relief by being truly heard
Help you feel less alone in your struggle
Begin to untangle patterns and triggers
Provide education about mental health and trauma responses
From that foundation, therapy helps with:
Our goal is for you to leave feeling more hopeful, less alone, and more empowered to move forward.
You Deserve to Feel Safe and Supported
Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about understanding you. It’s a space where your story is honored and your healing is supported.
The Importance of Connection in Therapy
Building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential. It fosters trust and allows for open communication. When you feel connected to your therapist, you are more likely to engage fully in the process. This connection can lead to deeper insights and more meaningful progress.
Setting Goals for Your Therapy Journey
At the beginning of your therapy, it’s helpful to set clear goals. What do you want to achieve? Are there specific issues you want to address? Discussing these goals with your therapist can provide direction and focus for your sessions. It also helps track your progress over time.
The Role of Feedback in Therapy
Feedback is crucial in therapy. It allows you to express what is working and what isn’t. Your therapist will encourage you to share your thoughts on the process. This open dialogue can enhance your experience and ensure that your needs are being met.
The Long-Term Benefits of Therapy
Therapy is not just about addressing immediate concerns. It can lead to long-term benefits such as:
Improved emotional regulation
Enhanced coping skills
Greater self-awareness
Healthier relationships
These benefits can extend beyond the therapy room and into your daily life.
📍 Located in Eastern Idaho
💻 Offering in-person & online therapy
📞 Call us: 208-261-2131
🌐 Learn more: www.greenstonecounseling.com
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