Starting therapy can be daunting, especially if you’ve never been before. You might have heard about psychotherapy or seen profiles of therapists online, but what happens once you actually book that first session? Let’s explore the essentials of psychotherapy for first-time clients, including what to expect, how profiles help connect you with the right therapist, and the importance of the therapeutic alliance.

Before the First Session
For many, the therapeutic journey begins even before stepping into the therapist’s office. It might start when you realize something in your life feels “off,” and you begin searching for help. You Google therapy practices, read profiles, and maybe see the faces of therapists. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed—there are many options, especially online. You may come across acronyms like CBT, EMDR, or DBT, but what do they mean?

At this stage, your therapeutic journey isn’t just about finding someone with the right qualifications; it’s about finding a person who resonates with you, someone you feel you could trust.