How to Start Therapy: What to Expect and How to Know If It’s Right for You
Considering therapy? You don’t have to be in crisis to start. This guide will help you understand how therapy works, what the first steps look like, and how to decide if now is the right time to begin.
Therapy Is a Choice, Not a Last Resort
You might be here because you’re unsure whether therapy is the right step — or you're simply trying to understand what happens in a first session. These are natural questions, and you're not alone in asking them.
Some clients say they just feel “stuck.” Others have gone through a life change — a breakup, burnout, or a loss — and want to process things in a safe space. You might not feel like you’re struggling “enough” for therapy. But therapy isn’t about reaching a breaking point. It’s about having a space to pause, explore, and reconnect with yourself.
“I wasn’t falling apart — just stuck.
That first conversation gave me space to finally be honest with myself.”
Former client reflection (shared with permission)
Common Doubts When Considering Therapy
“Is it worth the cost?”
“Will it even help?”
“I’m not sure I can open up to a stranger.”
“What if it brings up more than I can handle?”
These questions are common — and valid. Therapy is an emotional investment. But when the timing and the support are right, it becomes a space for clarity, change, and grounded self-awareness.
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Ready to Start?
Here’s What to Do Next
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Book a Free Consultation:
Let’s have a short call to explore your needs and what therapy might offer. -
Book Your First Session :
Individual therapy starts at £100/hour. You’ll receive a secure link and a welcome guide ahead of time.
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Begin Your Therapy Journey :
Set aside time and space to reflect. I’ll walk with you from here — with care, clarity, and compassion. You can book your weekly / bi-weekly at the time that suits you the most.
What Happens in a First Therapy Session?
The first session isn’t about solving everything. It’s about understanding your story, your current challenges, and what support might help.
Please note: This is different from the 15-minute free consultation, which is simply a brief space to ask questions, explore whether therapy feels right for you, and see if we’re a good fit — not a therapeutic session.
Here’s what typically happens:
We first talk about what brings you to therapy
We gain an initial understanding of your mental health history
We explore current difficulties and emotional patterns
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We clarify what you hope to gain from therapy
We do collaborative planning :
Frequency, Focus, Next Steps
5 Things to Know Before You Start Therapy
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Therapy is not a quick fix.
It’s more than just “talking.” It’s a structured, evidence-based process — and also a deeply human one. You might not feel better right away, but with time, therapy can lead to real change.
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Motivation matters.
Therapy works best when you’re ready to engage. Like going to the gym, showing up regularly is part of the work — even when you’re tired or uncertain.
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Change takes time.
You may not see progress every session. But many clients say they look back and realize how much they’ve grown, weeks or months later.
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Your relationship with the therapist matters.
A good therapist will help you feel heard, safe, and respected. You don’t need to click immediately — but trust is something we build together.
5. A little preparation helps.
Before your first session, take 10–15 minutes to reflect. What’s been on your mind? What do you want help with? Even writing down a few phrases can help you feel more grounded.