Having Problems Coping with Everyday Life?
What to Expect When Attending Individual Counseling for the First Time
It could be that extra 10 pounds you are unable to shake, or maybe you are struggling with infidelity. Or simply you’re not happy with your job and want some help figuring out what career will satisfy you. Or, you’re struggling with constant anxiety or depression.
Should any of the aforementioned situations be applicable to you, then individual counseling may benefit you. So what’s holding you back? The way counseling is sometimes portrayed in movies can paint a picture for some people, which can be somewhat off-putting.
However, in reality, even though there will be a couch or a comfortable chair, therapists are not, in fact, cold and detached listeners, who will charge the earth for only an hour of their time. Also, just because you are in counseling, does not mean there is something wrong with you. During your first session, your therapist will ask you some pertinent questions about your life. This will help them create an initial assessment of your life. Questions they could ask range from:
- Why you first sought individual counseling
- What issue led you to look for help. Your therapist needs to first understand your surface issues, before they are able to get to your deeper ones.
- Your history and situation to date.
- Your therapist will ask you several questions regarding your life. For instance, because families play an important part in who you are, they will ask about your history and your current situation.
- Your symptoms.
Apart from knowing why you sought out therapy, your therapist will attempt to find out if you’re suffering from any other symptoms. For instance, your problem could be causing you problems in work. The therapist uses this information to understand better what your problem is.
Call Linda L Anderson MS at (206) 782-7448 today. We are in Seattle, WA.