What to Expect in Therapy

Starting therapy can bring up many questions and uncertainties. You may wonder what sessions are like, what is expected of you, or whether therapy will feel helpful or overwhelming.

This page outlines what typically happens in therapy at this clinic, so you can approach the process with greater clarity and confidence.

Before Your First Session

You do not need to prepare anything specific before beginning therapy. Some people arrive with clear goals; others come with only a general sense of distress or curiosity about themselves. Both are completely valid starting points.

You may be asked to complete brief intake information prior to your first appointment. This helps ensure that therapy is appropriate and that your needs are understood.

The First Session

The first session is an opportunity to begin getting to know one another and to understand what has brought you to therapy.

This session typically involves:

• Discussing your current concerns
• Exploring relevant background information
• Clarifying what you hope to gain from therapy
• Explaining how therapy may be approached
• Answering any questions you may have

There is no pressure to share everything at once. Therapy progresses at a pace guided by comfort, safety, and readiness.

Ongoing Sessions

Subsequent sessions build on what emerges in the early meetings. Therapy may involve conversation, reflection, emotional processing, skills-based strategies, or guided experiential work, depending on your needs and the approach being used.

Sessions may include:

• Exploring thoughts, emotions, and patterns
• Developing coping and regulation strategies
• Processing difficult experiences
• Strengthening insight and self-awareness
• Supporting behavioural or habit change

Therapy is collaborative rather than directive. You are encouraged to provide feedback about what feels helpful or challenging.

Length and Frequency of Therapy

The length and frequency of therapy vary from person to person.

Some people attend therapy for a short period to address a specific concern, while others choose longer-term work for deeper exploration and integration.

This is discussed openly and reviewed as therapy progresses. There is no obligation to continue beyond what feels appropriate for you.

Psychotherapy, Counselling, and Hypnotherapy in Sessions

You do not need to decide in advance which type of therapy you want.

Depending on your needs, sessions may involve:

• Counselling for present-focused support and stabilisation
• Psychotherapy for deeper exploration of emotional and relational patterns
• Hypnotherapy for focused experiential work when appropriate

Any use of hypnotherapy is discussed in advance and proceeds only with your informed consent.

Emotional Safety and Boundaries

Therapy aims to be supportive, not overwhelming. Emotional safety is prioritised throughout the process.

This includes:

• Working within your capacity
• Respecting boundaries and consent
• Avoiding pressure to disclose before you are ready
• Maintaining professional and ethical standards

If difficult emotions arise, they are approached carefully and with support.

Confidentiality

Therapy sessions are confidential within professional and legal limits. Confidentiality and its boundaries are explained clearly at the beginning of therapy.

If you have questions or concerns about privacy, these are always welcome.

Progress, Challenges, and Change

Therapy is not always linear. You may notice periods of insight, relief, discomfort, or consolidation. All of these can be part of meaningful change.

Progress is reviewed collaboratively, and therapy is adjusted as needed. You are encouraged to raise concerns or uncertainties at any point.

Ending Therapy

Therapy may end when goals are met, when circumstances change, or when you feel ready to pause or conclude the work.

Endings are discussed openly and thoughtfully, allowing space for reflection and integration.

Related Pages

Next Steps

If you are considering therapy and would like to take the next step, you are welcome to book an appointment or arrange a complimentary introductory session. This offers an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and decide whether therapy at this clinic feels like a good fit for you.