What to Expect on Day One of Counselling: Demystifying the First Session

If you’re thinking about starting counselling in Basingstoke, the very first session can feel like the biggest step. Walking through that door might stir up a mix of nerves, curiosity, and maybe even a bit of hope. That’s completely normal. I’d like to share what happens in a first session with me so you can have a clearer picture—and hopefully feel a little more at ease about taking that step.

A Warm Welcome and a Safe Space

When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into a calm, private space where you can sit, take a breath, and settle in. I’ll offer you some water, and we’ll take things at your pace. My aim is always to create an environment where you feel safe, respected, and comfortable enough to start talking.

Talking Through the Practical Bits

In our first session, we’ll go over the counselling contract together. This isn’t as formal as it sounds—it’s simply a way of setting out how we’ll work together. It covers things like confidentiality (what it means and its limits), the length of sessions, cancellations, and boundaries that help keep our time together professional and safe.

Getting to Know Each Other

I’ll also share a little bit about me and the way I work. I believe counselling is a collaborative process, so it’s important that you know who you’re sitting with and how I approach therapy. From there, the session is really about you. It can help if you share any past experiences of therapy (good or bad), what you imagine therapy to be, and how you’d like to use your sessions.

Exploring Your Hopes

We’ll also talk about what you’d like to gain from counselling. There’s no right or wrong answer—it might be clarity, coping strategies, or simply a place to let your thoughts out. Some people come with specific goals, while others just know they need a space to explore what’s on their mind. Both are completely okay.

Confidentiality—What It Actually Means

One of the most important parts of counselling is confidentiality. Everything you share in our sessions stays between us, with a few exceptions related to safety and legal requirements, which I’ll explain clearly in our first meeting. This foundation of trust is key—it allows you to speak freely, knowing your words are respected and protected.

Taking That First Step

The first session is really about easing in. There’s no pressure to share everything at once. Think of it as laying the groundwork for the journey ahead. My role is to support you, not to rush you.

If you’re considering counselling in Basingstoke and are unsure what to expect, I hope this gives you a clearer picture. Reaching out can feel daunting, but once you take that first step, you might find it’s not as intimidating as it seemed—and that it could be the start of something truly supportive for you.