A gentle beginning — not an interrogation

Your first session isn’t a test and you don’t need to prepare anything. We start slowly. I’ll invite you to share whatever feels comfortable, what’s been going on for you, what’s brought you to therapy and what you’re hoping for. Some people talk a lot. Some people don’t know where to begin. Some people cry. Some people stay very calm All of it is welcome. There is no “right way” to show up!

We go at your pace

You’re in charge of how much you share. If something feels too much, we pause. If you need time to find your words, we take it. If you’re not sure what you feel yet, we explore that gently together. The first session is about getting a sense of each other, not diving into anything before you’re ready.

I’ll ask a few grounding questions

These help me understand your world a little better. Things like:

• What’s been feeling difficult lately;
• How stress or emotions show up for you;
• What support you’ve had before;
• What you’re hoping therapy might help with.

You don’t need polished answers, you just need to be yourself.

You can ask me questions too

Therapy is a relationship, not a service you “receive.” You might want to know:

• How I work;
• What sessions usually look like;
• How often we might meet;
• What happens if you feel stuck or overwhelmed;

You’re welcome to ask anything that helps you feel safe and informed.

We talk about what support might look like

Together, we explore what you need right now. That might be:

• A space to talk and be heard;
• Help making sense of feelings or patterns;
• Support with anxiety, overwhelm or burnout;
• Exploring identity, culture or belonging;
• Understanding relationship dynamics;

There’s no pressure to decide everything in the first session. It’s simply a starting point.

It’s also a chance to see if we’re a good fit

Therapy works best when you feel comfortable with your therapist. The first session gives you space to notice:

• Do you feel safe here;
• Do you feel understood;
• Does the pace feel right;
• Does this relationship feel like it could support you.

There’s no obligation to continue if it doesn’t feel right. You deserve a space that truly supports you.

You don’t have to hold it all together

Many people arrive to their first session feeling nervous, overwhelmed or unsure. You don’t need to be composed. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You don’t need to be “ready.”

You just need to show up as you are.

I’ll meet you there.

A gentle invitation

If you’re thinking about starting therapy or returning after some time away, you’re welcome to reach out. Your first session is simply a conversation, a place to breathe and a chance to see whether this feels like the right support for you.

Whenever you’re ready, I’m here.