What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session at Behavioural Edge Psychology

Taking the first step toward seeing a psychologist is a significant act of courage. It is entirely normal to feel a mix of hope, nervousness, and uncertainty about what that first session at Behavioural Edge Psychology will actually involve.

I believe that feeling safe and informed is the first step toward effective change. This guide demystifies the initial appointment, so you can walk into our Caulfield South, Brighton East, or Telehealth rooms feeling ready and supported.

1. Before You Arrive: The Logistics

Your focus should be on preparing yourself mentally, but there are a few simple items that make the start of the session seamless.

• Initial Paperwork: I will send you some brief intake forms ahead of time. These cover basic contact details and consent to treatment. Completing these beforehand saves valuable session time.

• Referral Information (If Applicable): If you are attending under a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, please email or bring your referral letter and the plan details.

• Finding Your Space: We offer sessions in our welcoming rooms in Caulfield South and Brighton East, or via Telehealth for Australian residents. If attending in person, we recommend arriving 5–10 minutes early to settle in. If joining online, ensure you are in a quiet, private space where you will not be disturbed.

2. Setting the Foundation: Confidentiality & Trust

The first 10-15 minutes of the session is dedicated to setting the framework for our work together. This is crucial for establishing the therapeutic relationship.

The Non-Judgmental Space

I will start by welcoming you and explaining my process. The key takeaways will be:

• Confidentiality: Everything you share is strictly confidential. I will clearly outline the ethical and legal limits of confidentiality (e.g., duty of care if there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others).

• My Approach: I practice client-centred, evidence-based therapy, drawing on trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. This means I tailor the approach to you, using scientifically supported methods to ensure effective, holistic care.

• Your Questions: This is your opportunity to ask any logistical questions about fees, cancellations, or the therapeutic style.

3. The Core of the First Session: Assessment & Discovery

Much of your initial session is dedicated to intake and assessment. Think of this as a structured conversation where we get to know each other, your history, and your world.

What We Will Explore (What Brought You Here)

I will be guided by open-ended questions designed to understand your current situation fully. You do not need to have the perfect answer; honesty and openness are the only requirements.

• The Presenting Concern: "What has brought you to therapy at this time in your life?" and "How is this concern impacting your daily life, work, and relationships?"

• Your History: We will gently touch on your background, significant life events, and support systems to understand the context of your challenges.

• Past Experiences: If you have had therapy before, we will explore what was helpful, what was not, and what you would like to do differently this time.

• Areas of Focus: Since Behavioural Edge Psychology supports both individual wellbeing and professional growth, we will explore specific challenges like:

  • Stress and Burnout

  • Anxiety or Depression

  • Trauma and Emotional Difficulties

  • Career Stagnation or Performance Issues

What NOT to Expect

It is important to manage expectations for this initial meeting:

• No Quick Fixes: You will not leave with all your problems solved. The first session is about diagnosis and formulation, not immediate intervention.

• No Pressure to Over-Share: You set the pace. If a topic feels too painful or difficult, it is perfectly fine to say, "I'm not ready to discuss that yet." I respect your boundaries.

• No Judgment: Our space is one of radical acceptance. You are not "too much," and there is nothing you can share that will be met with judgment.

4. Before You Leave: Setting a Direction

In the final part of the session, I will bring the conversation to a close by collaborating with you on a path forward.

• Initial Goal Setting: We will collaboratively define what success looks like for you. This might involve short-term goals (e.g., "manage stress levels this week") and long-term goals (e.g., "process past trauma" or "achieve a promotion").

• Treatment Plan: I will provide a preliminary outline of the treatment approach and the frequency of sessions recommended to achieve your goals.

• Re-Booking: You will have the opportunity to schedule your next session, usually for the following week, as consistency is key in the early stages of building rapport and momentum.

The most important outcome of your first session is that you walk away feeling heard, respected, and clear that you have found the right partner to help you be your best.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

I welcome new clients for individual therapy, career coaching, and organisational consulting.

🔗 Click here to book directly or contact me for more information about starting your therapy journey with Behavioural Edge Psychology.