Counselling & Consulting
Services Tasmania
0419 175 948
info@ccstas.com.au
Unsure what to expect from counselling?
If you've never attended counselling or therapy before, committing to a session can feel a little unnerving.
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You may feel a little nervous, or worried that you might be judged. You may feel hesitant to be vulnerable and open yourself up to a stranger. You may just feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to even start. Or, you may feel none of those things. Either way, I want you to know that however you feel is completely normal, and you're definitely not alone. I felt that way too when attending my first therapy session!
My role as a counsellor is to offer clients unconditional positive regard and support, and provide a safe space where they can truly be seen and heard. It means that the foundation of our relationship is one of acceptance and validation (but this doesn't mean I won't gently challenge your perspective at times!)
Coming into counselling is courageous, and I believe that anyone who wants to take that first step deserves compassion and respect. Here's what you can expect when you book your first session:
Step 1 - Email, text, phone or just book yourself in!
First things first - reach out! You can make an appointment in whatever way suits you. I understand that picking up the phone and making a call isn't always convenient or comfortable, so I invite you to reach out in the way that makes most sense for you.
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You can also secure your appointment without the hassle of waiting for a callback or reply by booking yourself directly into my calendar!
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If you'd like to get a sense of my general approach and style, I write a monthly column called Mind Matters which is available on the blog page. It'll give you a good idea of how I think and communicate, which can be useful in determining if we are the right fit. You can also read the about us page to learn more.
Step 2 - Confirmation, consent, and intake
After booking an appointment, you'll be sent a confirmation email or text with the date, location, and payment details. You'll receive a reminder text the day before your appointment.
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We'll also send you a copy of the client registration and confidentiality forms. You can fill this out yourself and bring to our first session. There will also be copies available on the day of, so no worries if it slips your mind.
Step 3 - Your first session
At the beginning of the session, I'll welcome you and briefly go over our commitment to confidentiality (and its exceptions). If you've provided me the intake form, I may ask you a few questions relating to information you've provided there. But, most importantly, you're going to say whatever you need to say, and I'm going to listen. You will be invited to share whatever you feel is relevant to me understanding your experience, but you'll never be encouraged to share anything that would make you feel uncomfortable. You set the pace for our sessions.
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**If you'd like for me to work with your child, then I work with you too.
Please click here for more information on counselling for children.​
Step 3 - Rebooking and Sessions 2 to ???
At the end of our session, I'll often ask how you feel the session went and if you'd like to rebook. This is a good time for us to discuss any feedback, or things you'd like to focus on for next time.
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Sessions can range anywhere from a once-off for more acute issues, to ongoing for more longer term work. We'll discuss what your needs and goals are during that first appointment and decide on a timeline that works for you.
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Most clients choose to continue either weekly or fortnightly, depending on their needs. However, sessions can be spaced out further if needed. Sometimes life happens fast and I welcome contact whenever you're ready to resume - whether it's been weeks, months, or even years since your last session.
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