What to Expect
It is natural to be hesitant and wary of new experiences, especially if you do not know what to expect. If you have never seen a therapist before, you probably have a lot of questions about the process. During your first session with Crespo Mental Health, the therapist will ask you to fill out some forms that gather basic demographic and contact information. There will also be another form which aims at gathering more personal information such as your medical history, psychiatric history, and family history. We ask that you complete these forms because the more we know about you the better we can help you.
In most cases, people seek counseling due to a particular issue in their life. Be prepared for the therapist to ask questions to better understand this problem. It is normal to feel uneasy or uncomfortable during this stage – feel free to verbalize your discomfort!
The therapist will also want to know about your life. You will be asked about your family, upbringing, and current situation. We understand this may feel intrusive, so if you don’t feel ready to discuss a particular area of your life, please communicate it to the therapist.
The therapist will want to know your symptoms and what you have been struggling with. For example, you may be struggling with anxiety or depression. Try to recall all the symptoms so the therapist can better understand your situation and adjust the treatment for it.
Even though it may sound like the therapist is taking control of the session, in reality, therapy is a team effort and it will be more valuable if the client takes an active role as well. To better serve you we encourage you to be open, ask questions, give us feedback, and tell us what works or does not work!
Lastly, we want you to understand that therapy is not a quick fix. It is a process which takes effort and dedication. Therapy is a journey that can lead you to enjoy a healthier, happier life.