What to expect from your first counselling session – Sheffield

What to expect from your first counselling session?

Starting therapy can feel like a big step. This page walks you through what happens in our first meeting so you can arrive feeling informed and at ease.

Before we meet

After we book, I’ll email you a short assessment form. It isn’t a test — it’s simply a way to help you (and me) arrive prepared. Many people use it to do a gentle brain-dump of what’s on their mind.

What it asks

  • Why you’re coming now. The headlines, in your words.

  • What you want from counselling. Hopes, goals or themes you’d like us to focus on.

  • What you don’t want. Anything that wouldn’t feel helpful right now (pace, topics, styles).

  • What you want from me. For example: more structure or more space; gentle challenge; practical tools; creative options.

  • How we’ll know it’s helping. Small signs you might notice by the end of our work (e.g., sleeping better, calmer at work, fewer panic spikes).

Where we meet

We can meet in person at my Nether Edge office (Sheffield S7) or online via Teams/WhatsApp — whatever feels most comfortable for you.

A gentle beginning

I’ll welcome you in, offer water, and we’ll slow the pace. You don’t have to tell your whole story all at once. Many people start with what’s hardest right now, or simply, “I’m not sure where to begin.”

What we’ll talk about

  • What brings you: anxiety, low mood, grief, relationship difficulties, work stress, health changes — or a mix.

  • Hopes and preferences: what you’d like from counselling, the pace that feels right, and any approaches you know you like (or don’t).

  • Practicalities: fees, timings, cancellations, and how to contact me.

  • Confidentiality: what stays private and the few, specific exceptions for safety or legal reasons.

  • Next steps: we’ll decide together whether to book further sessions (weekly or fortnightly is common).

I work integratively and pluralistically — which means we tailor therapy to you, and we review together so it stays useful.

After the session

It’s normal to feel lighter, tired, unsure, or all three. You’re welcome to email a brief reflection afterwards. We can agree a small next step (for example, a breathing exercise, a journalling prompt, or simply noticing what changes when you give something attention).

FAQs

How long is the first session?
50 minutes for individuals (60+ minutes for couples if preferred).

What if I’m nervous or get upset?
That’s okay. We’ll go at your pace, and we can pause whenever you need.

Do I have to commit to a set number of sessions?
No. Some people come short-term; others prefer longer-term. We’ll review as we go.

Ready to start?
Email me to book a first session, or read more about my counselling agreement and fees & FAQ.