Thinking about starting therapy? Deciding to reach out to a therapist for depression and anxiety is a wonderful move toward a happier, healthier you. Many people are unsure what to expect during their first session, and that’s perfectly normal. Knowing what might happen can help you feel more comfortable and confident as you begin this journey. Let’s go through what therapy for depression and anxiety looks like and what your first session might involve.
Who Is a Therapist for Depression and Anxiety?
A therapist for depression and anxiety is someone trained to listen, understand, and guide you. They create a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings openly. These therapists use specialized techniques to help people understand and manage their emotions.
A therapist for depression and anxiety can be:
- Psychologists: They use talk therapy to help you explore your thoughts and behaviors.
- Counselors: They focus on listening, supporting, and helping you develop new coping strategies.
- Psychiatrists: As medical doctors, they can help manage symptoms and, if needed, prescribe medication to support your therapy journey.
Getting Ready for Your First Session
Your first session is about getting to know each other. Your therapist will guide you, but it can help you prepare before you go.
1. Fill Out Forms
Some therapists ask new clients to complete a few forms before the session. These may include questions like:
- Why you are seeking therapy.
- Your goals or what you hope to gain.
- Any previous experiences with counseling.
These forms help your therapist understand your needs and goals.
2. Choose a Quiet, Comfortable Space
If you’re meeting online, find a place where you feel at ease and won’t be interrupted. This space can make a difference in feeling comfortable.
3. Write Down Any Thoughts or Questions
You might have specific questions about therapy or want to share certain thoughts. Writing these down can help you remember them during the session.
Starting the First Session: Getting to Know Each Other
The first session with a therapist for depression and anxiety is all about introductions. Your therapist will explain how therapy works and help you feel comfortable. This session is for you, so you get to set the pace.
Here’s what might happen:
- Introductions: Your therapist will start by introducing themselves and their background, helping you get to know them.
- Discussing Your Goals: They may ask, “What brings you here today?” or “What do you hope to work on?” This is your chance to share what matters to you.
- Taking It at Your Own Pace: You’re in charge of how much you share. If you’re not sure where to begin, your therapist will guide you with gentle questions.
Common Questions from Your Therapist
Your therapist will likely ask a few questions to get to know you better. Don’t worry—there’s no right or wrong answer, and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable.
Some questions might include:
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How have you been feeling recently?
This helps them understand what’s on your mind.
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When did these feelings first start?
They may ask this to understand how long you’ve been experiencing these emotions.
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How do these feelings impact your daily life?
Your therapist may want to know how things like sleep, work, or social life are going.
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What are your hopes for therapy?
Sharing your goals can help the therapist guide the sessions to meet your needs.
Opening Up at Your Own Comfort Level
In your first session, you only need to share what you feel comfortable with. You’re not expected to get into everything all at once. Therapy is a process, and building trust with your therapist for depression and anxiety takes time.
You might feel ready to talk about:
- Recent struggles or challenges: Talking about what’s on your mind right now is a great place to start.
- Past experiences: Sharing background information can be helpful but isn’t required in the first session.
- Thoughts and feelings: Your therapist is there to listen without judgment, so feel free to express what you’ve been experiencing.
What Therapy for Anxiety and Depression Involves
Therapists use different methods to help people manage depression and anxiety. Each method is designed to support you in finding peace and joy.
1. Talk Therapy
Talk therapy gives you a space to express your feelings openly. Simply talking things through can bring a sense of relief and clarity. It helps to have someone there who listens deeply and offers perspective.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
In CBT, your therapist may help you notice and change unhelpful thought patterns. For example, if you think, “I can’t handle this,” they’ll work with you to reframe it to something like, “I’m learning to manage challenges.”
3. Mindfulness Techniques
Many therapists use mindfulness to help clients stay focused on the present. Mindfulness can also help calm the mind and bring a sense of peace, especially with anxiety.
4. Setting Small Goals
Therapists may help you set achievable daily goals. These goals could include practicing breathing exercises, taking a short walk, or journaling. Small, steady steps often make a big difference over time.
How You May Feel After the First Session
Many people feel hopeful and lighter after their first therapy session. Having someone who listens, understands, and offers support can feel encouraging. It’s also normal to feel a mix of emotions as you begin exploring your thoughts and feelings in a new way.
Remember:
- Therapy is a journey: You don’t need to solve everything immediately. Progress happens over time.
- All feelings are welcome: Whatever you feel after your session is perfectly okay. Every emotion is part of the journey.
- You’re in charge: You decide what to share, at a pace that feels right for you.
How Therapy Helps Over Time
Meeting with a therapist for depression and anxiety regularly can bring positive changes. Over time, therapy may help you:
- Feel more in control: Therapy teaches tools and strategies to help you manage your feelings.
- Understand yourself better: Talking things through helps you make sense of your thoughts and behaviors.
- Improve relationships: When you feel more at ease with yourself, this often reflects positively on your relationships with others.
- Experience more peace: Many people feel lighter and more hopeful after spending time in therapy.
Therapy offers a space to learn about yourself in a new way, and the benefits grow over time. It’s a positive, ongoing process.
Looking Ahead: Your Therapy Journey
Therapy is a path of growth, self-discovery, and understanding. After the first session, your therapist might suggest regular weekly sessions, though this can adjust as you go along.
In future sessions, you may:
- Explore deeper thoughts and feelings: Your therapist will guide you gently, helping you make sense of things.
- Practice new coping skills: You’ll learn techniques to handle daily stresses positively.
- Celebrate small wins: Your therapist will help you recognize each step forward, big or small.
Begin with a Therapist for Depression and Anxiety
Working with a therapist for depression and anxiety like Dr. Bren Hudson means having someone by your side who listens, guides, and helps you discover your inner strength. Through her unique approach, blending Jungian psychology with Buddhist practices, Dr. Bren offers a space to talk openly, uncover insights, and make sense of life’s challenges in a way that feels meaningful to you.
If this is the right next step, consider booking an online session with Dr. Bren.
