What to expect at your first appointment

It can be difficult to book your first appointment, as you may not know what to expect. Everyone has had different experiences with therapeutic professionals, who all work differently. At Therapy with Michaela we understand that this can be a challenging and anxiety-provoking process, regardless of the reason you are seeking support. One of our core values is safety and we see it as the foundation stone to any psychological and psychotherapeutic work.

In the first session, Michaela will answer any of your questions about the process, and discuss her way of working. Together, you will then work towards an understanding of what brings you to the session, what your circumstances are, and the difficulties and challenges you are currently facing. Michaela will ask some questions around these areas, and give you time to share what you feel comfortable with. At times, people feel that there is not enough time to share everything and some may even feel pressure to go into details about their experiences. It is important to remember that you only need to share what you feel comfortable with.

Once the relevant information is discussed, Michaela will work with you to recommend a treatment plan and give you options, to allow you to make an informed decision. All of this is discussed in the safe, relaxed and confidential environment we have created here at Therapy with Michaela.

Getting the most out of seeing a therapist relies on a relationship that develops over time. We therefore ask that you initially commit to three sessions, where Michaela will seek to identify your goals and current concerns, and the treatment plan that will be most helpful to you. We can then adjust the frequency of visits as needed.

If your child or adolescent is seeing Michaela, the majority, (and in some cases all), of the first appointment will be spent with you, to get a clear picture of the difficulties and your expectations of treatment for your child or adolescent. Depending on the child’s/adolescent’s age you may be required to attend all of the sessions.

The length of treatment varies between people, depending on your challenges and what you want to achieve.