What To Expect During Your First Therapy Appointment

Beginning therapy is a meaningful step, and it is completely normal to feel unsure about what the first session will be like. My goal is to make that first appointment feel comfortable and predictable so you can focus on why you are seeking support rather than worrying about what will happen.

At Lionheart Counseling Services, sessions take place virtually. You can settle into therapy from your own space, without the pressure of a waiting room or the feeling of being rushed. It is simply you and me having a real conversation.

Before we meet

Once you schedule, you will receive access to your secure client portal. Inside, you will find your intake forms, consent documents, and information about confidentiality. These forms help me understand your background and give you a sense of how I work.

You will also receive the link for your virtual session. When the time comes, you click and join.

The first few minutes

We start by making sure your audio and video are working and that you feel comfortable where you are. I will check in about privacy and whether the space you are in feels okay for talking. This is your time, and I want it to feel as easy as possible to settle into the conversation.

I will also share a bit about my approach. As a systemically trained therapist, I pay attention to the larger systems that shape your life. Family, work, relationships, military culture, and community all influence how stress shows up and how healing happens. Therapy is not about blaming those systems. It is about understanding how they affect you so we can create meaningful change.

Talking about what brought you here

You do not need a perfect explanation. You can start anywhere. Some people begin with a recent event. Others talk about long‑term patterns. Many say, “I am not sure what is wrong, but something feels off.” All of that is welcome.

I will ask gentle, open questions to help you share your story without feeling overwhelmed. You never have to disclose more than you want to. This is not a trauma dump session. It is a conversation.

Setting goals together

Once we have a sense of what is going on, we will talk about what you want from therapy. Goals can be specific or broad. They can shift over time. We shape them together so therapy feels purposeful and supportive.

What you will not experience

You will not be pushed to relive trauma.

You will not be pressured to share details you are not ready for.

You will not be judged for your coping strategies.

You will not be expected to have everything figured out.

Therapy is a space for honesty, not perfection.

Wrapping up the session

We will talk about next steps, including how often you would like to meet. Most clients begin with weekly sessions, but we can adjust based on your needs. I will answer any questions you have about the process or what therapy might look like moving forward.

Cost and practical details

Sessions are one hundred twenty five dollars and take place virtually. Payment is collected through your secure client portal. I do not accept insurance, but I can provide superbills for out‑of‑network reimbursement if your plan offers it.

After the session

Many people feel relieved. Some feel tired. Others feel hopeful. All of these reactions are normal. You just took a meaningful step toward caring for yourself.

If you are ready to begin, you can schedule your first appointment or reach out with questions.