Starting therapy can be a big step. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with your mental health or going through a life transition, or simply seeking to understand yourself better, at Kingston Road Psychology we can offer support, clarity, and guidance.
If you’re considering booking your first appointment—or have one coming up—you might be wondering what it’s actually like. Here’s what you can typically expect during your first visit.
We offer a free phone consultation before your appointment to answer questions and ensure a good fit. When you book your initial appointment, you will be asked to create a profile on our client portal OWL. This portal will allow you to book future appointments and send secure messages between appointments. You will also be asked to complete intake forms, either online or in person. These forms gather basic information about your background, current concerns, medical and mental health history, and any goals you might have for therapy. This helps prepare for your session and understand your unique needs.
The first session lasts between 50 to 60 minutes. The main goal is to get to know you and understand what brought you in.
Here’s what you can expect:
A Conversation, Not an Interrogation
You’ll be invited to share your story at your own pace.
- Your current concerns or symptoms
- Your personal history and significant life events
- Your relationships, work, and daily life
- Previous experiences with therapy or mental health treatment
- Any goals or hopes you have for therapy
This isn’t about judgment—it’s about understanding you fully and offer the most effective support.
We will explain how your information is kept confidential, as well as the limits of confidentiality (for example, in situations involving risk of harm to self or others). You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions about therapy, fees, scheduling, or cancellation policies.
By the end of the session, we may start outlining a general direction for therapy. Some people begin with a clear goal (e.g., managing anxiety, healing from trauma), while others just know they don’t feel like themselves. Both are equally valid starting points.
We may offer initial impressions or feedback, recommend a treatment approach (e.g., CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, trauma-informed) and discuss the frequency of sessions (usually weekly to start).
You don’t need to:
- Have your whole life story ready
- Know exactly what’s wrong
- Say everything “perfectly”
Therapy is a collaborative process. We are here to help you explore your thoughts and feelings. It’s okay to feel nervous, unsure, or even skeptical at first. Many people do.
It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions afterward—relief, vulnerability, curiosity, even exhaustion. You may want to take some time after your appointment to reflect or rest.
The therapeutic process tends to unfold over time, building trust and insight session by session.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, navigating grief, exploring past experiences, or simply wanting to grow, the first step is often the hardest—but it can also be the most life-changing.
If you’re considering therapy and have questions about the process, feel free to reach out.