Starting your first therapy session can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. Whether you’re seeking professional support for the first time or exploring new treatment options, understanding what to expect can help you feel more at ease. At GoodMind Therapeutics, we prioritise patient comfort and clarity, guiding you through the process to ensure you feel prepared. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for your first therapy session and make the most of your mental health journey.
Getting Started with GoodMind Therapeutics
At GoodMind Therapeutics, we start with an online screening form, followed by a telephone consultation with a nurse practitioner to assess your eligibility for our treatments. These initial steps help us determine if our innovative therapies align with your needs. If you qualify, we will guide you through the next steps toward beginning your treatment journey.
How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session
Feeling prepared can ease any anxiety about starting therapy. Here are some steps to help you get ready:
1. Complete the Screening Form
Before scheduling your first therapy session, you’ll need to complete our online screening form. This helps us determine if our treatments align with your needs.
2. Clarify Your Goals
Take some time to reflect on why you’re seeking therapy. Are you looking for symptom management, support in decision-making, or a space to talk through emotions? Having a general idea of what you’d like to achieve can guide the conversation.
3. Write Down Key Information
It may be helpful to make notes on:
- Any symptoms you’ve been experiencing
- Life events that may be affecting your mental health
- Any medications or previous treatments
- Questions you’d like to ask your therapist
4. Manage Expectations
Your first therapy session is about building rapport and understanding your needs. You don’t need to share everything at once—therapy is a process, and progress takes time.
5. Consider Practical Aspects
- Check your appointment details and location.
- Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary forms.
- Wear comfortable clothing to help you feel at ease.
- Bring a notebook if you want to jot down key points from the session.
6. Keep an Open Mind
Therapy is a collaborative process. Your therapist is there to support you, but it may take time to find the right approach. Be open to exploring different techniques and adjusting as needed.
What Happens During Your First Therapy Session
Your first therapy session will vary based on the treatment type. Here’s a general overview:
Intranasal Therapy
Your healthcare provider will guide you on preparation, which may include avoiding food and drink for a short period. During the session, you will self-administer the medication intranasally under supervision, followed by a monitoring period to assess your response and manage any side effects.
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
The first session serves as a preparatory session, where you establish rapport with your therapist, discuss expectations, and develop a supportive framework for the treatment journey. This will be followed by subsequent dosing and integration sessions, where you will undergo the treatment in a controlled setting and work with your therapist to process insights and incorporate them into your daily life.
Regardless of the therapy type, your first session is an opportunity to ask any questions about the process, confidentiality, and next steps in your treatment journey.
What Happens After Your First Therapy Session?
At the end of your first therapy session, your therapist may provide recommendations for ongoing support, suggest follow-up appointments, or discuss potential next steps. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions—relieved, hopeful, or even overwhelmed. Processing your experience and taking notes on what stood out can help guide your future sessions.
Moving Forward with Therapy
Starting therapy is a significant step toward prioritising your mental well-being. At GoodMind Therapeutics, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our innovative therapies and resources are designed to empower you on your journey toward better mental health.
If you’re considering therapy but unsure where to begin, start by completing our screening form to determine whether our treatments are the right fit for you.
To learn more about GoodMind Therapeutics, contact our team today at 02 6190 0408 or email us at [email protected].
