What Happens in Your First Counselling Session?

Taking the first step towards counselling can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never spoken to a counsellor before. It's completely normal to feel nervous, uncertain, or even wonder if counselling is the right choice for you.

At Worthy Beings, my goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can simply be yourself. There is no expectation to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. We'll take things at your pace.

Before Your Appointment

Before we meet, you'll receive an intake form and a privacy and confidentiality agreement to complete. These forms help me understand a little about you and ensure you're informed about how your personal information is managed.

If you're attending a Walk & Talk session, I'll also confirm our meeting location and answer any questions you may have before we begin.

When You Arrive

Whether you're meeting with me in the counselling room, online, or during a Walk & Talk session, we'll begin by taking a few moments to settle in.

There is no pressure to dive straight into difficult topics. Many people spend the first few minutes simply getting comfortable, having a chat, and getting to know each other.

Building trust is an important part of counselling, and there's no rush.

We'll Talk About What's Brought You H

ere

One of the first questions I'll ask is something like:

"What brings you to counselling?"

You don't need to have the perfect answer.

Some people come with a very specific challenge, while others simply know that something doesn't feel quite right.

You might be experiencing:

• Anxiety or constant worry

• Stress or burnout

• Grief and loss

• Relationship difficulties

• Major life changes

• Low confidence or self-worth

• Feeling overwhelmed

• Wanting to better understand yourself

Whatever has brought you here, we'll explore it together.

We'll Discuss Confidentiality

At the beginning of your first appointment, I'll explain confidentiality and answer any questions you have.

Everything discussed during counselling remains private, except in a small number of situations where I have a legal or ethical responsibility to act to help keep someone safe. I'll explain these situations clearly so you know exactly what to expect.

Getting to Know You

Counselling isn't just about discussing problems—it's about understanding you as a whole person.

We'll talk about areas such as:

• Your current circumstances

• Important relationships

• Your strengths

• Your supports

• What's been working well

• What feels difficult right now

• Your hopes for counselling

This helps me gain a better understanding of your unique experiences so we can work together in a way that feels meaningful to you.

Do I Have to Talk About Everything?

Not at all.

You are always in control of what you choose to share.

Some people are ready to open up immediately, while others take several sessions before discussing certain experiences.

Both approaches are completely okay.

Counselling isn't about forcing conversations before you're ready—it's about creating a space where you feel safe enough to have them when the time feels right.

Will I Leave Feeling Better?

Every session is different.

Some people leave feeling lighter after sharing something they've been carrying for a long time.

Others may leave feeling emotional after discussing difficult experiences.

Sometimes counselling can feel challenging because meaningful growth often involves exploring thoughts, emotions, and experiences that have been difficult to face.

Whatever comes up during your session, we'll work through it together at a pace that feels manageable.

My Approach

At Worthy Beings, I believe every person deserves to feel heard, respected, and supported without judgement.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centred. Rather than telling you what to do, I'll work alongside you to better understand your experiences, recognise your strengths, and develop practical strategies that support your wellbeing.

Counselling isn't about fixing you—because you are not broken.

It's about creating space to understand yourself, navigate life's challenges, and move towards the life you want to live.

Taking the First Step

Starting counselling can feel like a big decision, but you don't have to have everything worked out before reaching out.

You simply need a willingness to begin.

If you're considering counselling and would like to learn more, I'd be honoured to walk alongside you on your journey.

At Worthy Beings, appointments are available in person, online, or out in nature.

Wherever you're starting from, you're welcome here.