Deciding to reach out to a counselor is often the hardest step. Not knowing what happens next can make it harder. Here is what the process usually looks like.
The first call or email
You do not need to explain everything. A sentence or two about what is going on, plus your name and a good way to reach you, is enough. Many counselors cannot answer the phone during sessions, so expect to leave a message and get a call back.
Keep sensitive details out of email. A phone conversation is a better place for them.
Questions you may be asked
- What is prompting you to seek counseling now
- Whether you have been in counseling before
- Your insurance, if you plan to use it
- Your availability for appointments
This is also your chance to ask questions: how sessions work, what they cost, and whether the counselor has experience with what you are facing.
Before the first session
You will usually be asked to complete some paperwork, such as contact information, a short history and consent forms. If you are using insurance, it is worth calling the number on your card to ask about your mental health benefits and any copay.
The first session
The first meeting is mostly a conversation. The counselor will ask about what brings you in, your background and what you hope will change. You decide how much to share and how fast. By the end, you should have a sense of how the two of you would work together.
Finding the right fit
Feeling comfortable with your counselor matters. It is fine to say so if something is not working, or to try someone else. A good counselor will understand.
If you ever feel you may hurt yourself or someone else, do not wait for an appointment. Call 911, call or text 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.