First Counselling Session: What to Expect

YOUR FIRST VISIT

It’s important to us that you’re comfortable with your counselling experience. The purpose of this first session is for you to discuss with your counsellor what’s been going on for you and how it’s affecting your life. When you first contact us, we’ll do our best to respond promptly and set up an appointment. This is a good time to ask questions or voice concerns you have about the process. During your first appointment, you’ll work with your counsellor to complete a full intake assessment including:

  • Informed Consent Form – which outlines your rights as a client and our legal and ethical boundaries as counsellors.
  • Intake Questionnaire – which will ask you for your contact information and a brief description of the issues you’re struggling with.

By the end of the session, your counsellor will have outlined therapeutic goals with you, and what to expect when addressing the concerns you are struggling with.

WHAT IS COUNSELLING

The counselling relationship is private and confidential. Information is normally not disclosed without your consent, except where disclosure is required or authorized by law, professional standards, or other applicable obligations. Your counsellor will review the limits of confidentiality with you as part of informed consent and can answer any questions you may have. Depending on the circumstances, limits to confidentiality can include matters involving child protection, serious risk of harm, or lawful requirements for records or information.
There are benefits and risks to the counselling process. Counselling may involve remembering difficult experiences or experiencing strong emotions. Potential benefits can include greater self-understanding, improved coping, healthier relationships, and progress toward goals that matter to you. Your counsellor can talk with you about the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives that are relevant to your circumstances.
Counselling is a collaborative process. It can be helpful to be as open with your counsellor as feels appropriate, ask questions, and work together on goals that are meaningful to you. Between sessions, you may choose to reflect on material covered in counselling, notice patterns you want to change, or practise a new skill when that fits your work together.

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ACCESS, BENEFITS & FUNDING

Some people may have extended-health benefits, workplace coverage, third-party funding, or another source of support that can help with counselling costs. Coverage varies by plan and funding source.

We are happy to help you understand what information you may need when checking your benefits, but reimbursement decisions are made by your insurer or funding provider.

If cost is a concern, please ask us about current practicum, reduced-fee, or possible no-fee counselling options.

Learn more about Affordable & Reduced-Cost Counselling