Starting therapy can feel exciting, nerve-wracking, or a little bit of both. Whether you’re new to mental health therapy or returning after a break, knowing what to expect in your first session can help ease anxiety and set the tone for a supportive, healing experience.
At Guerin Therapy Group in Raleigh, NC, we believe that therapy should be inclusive, affirming, and grounded in your unique needs. Here’s a breakdown of what your first therapy session might look like—and how we’ll support you from the very beginning.
1. A Warm, Judgment-Free Welcome
Your first session isn’t about fixing you—it’s about getting to know you. We know that taking the first step can be vulnerable, and we meet that with compassion, not pressure. Whether you’re coming in for anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorder support, or general mental health concerns, we aim to create a space where you feel safe and heard.
We honor all bodies, identities, and lived experiences. Your story is welcome here.
2. Getting Oriented: What Brought You to Therapy?
Your therapist will invite you to share what led you to therapy, what you’re hoping to work on, and what feels most important to you right now. There’s no right or wrong way to begin. Some folks share a lot up front, while others need time to feel safe. Both are totally okay.
We might explore:
- Current challenges or symptoms (anxiety, burnout, disordered eating, relationship stress, etc.)
- Past experiences that still impact you
- Goals or hopes for therapy
3. An Overview of How Therapy Works
Your therapist will walk you through:
- Our approach (for example, somatic therapy, trauma-informed care, and/or HAES-aligned treatment)
- What sessions typically look like
- Confidentiality and its limits
- Logistics like session frequency and scheduling
If you have questions about a therapist’s style or approach, you can schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation here: https://guerintherapygroup.com/contact/.
4. Collaboration, Not Prescription
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. At Guerin Therapy Group, we approach therapy as a collaborative relationship. Your voice matters. We’ll work together to create a path that feels right for you—whether you need structure, space to process, or strategies to navigate daily life.
5. What Happens Next?
By the end of the first session, you and your therapist will likely discuss:
- How you feel about continuing
- Any specific goals you want to set (though these can evolve over time!)
- What the next session will look like
Many clients feel a sense of relief after the first session—even though everything isn’t figured out yet (because therapy takes time). Just showing up is a powerful first step.
Ready to Begin Your Therapy Journey in Raleigh, NC?
If you’re looking for affirming, inclusive, and trauma-informed mental health therapy in Raleigh, we’re here for you. At Guerin Therapy Group, we provide care that centers your body, your story, and your values.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation or book your first session.
Let’s start your healing journey—together.
We are located in downtown Raleigh, NC inside of the integrative wellness center, Current Wellness.
