1. Come prepared.
For first time clients, it can certainly be a little confusing and feel a little daunting as it’s your first time and you’re not quite sure what to expect.  But, remember, this is all about you. Feel free to take the driver’s seat and come in with some goals and some thoughts on what accomplishing those goals might look like. Establishing goals is one of the first things that counselors do. Many times, clients are unsure what their goals would look like and are puzzled with how to even go about reaching them. That’s ok too.  It’s all part of the process. But, if you do happen to have a good idea what your goal would be, take some time to write it down and bring it in, so we can hit the ground running. 

2. Journal.
Journaling is often prescribed for clients in many different circumstances. It’s probably the single most effective way to maximize your counseling sessions and the process overall.  Most people do not journal on a regular basis, so this is usually something that does not come naturally to many clients. However, it will help you better remember your thoughts and experiences throughout the week and also serve as a method to develop meaningful insights in between sessions.  Clients who start off their sessions recounting their weekly thoughts and experiences from their journal tend to get the most out of their sessions.

3. Mentally prepare.
One of the most difficult parts of the first 10 minutes of counseling is transitioning from your busy routine and mental problem-solving of day-to-day tasks into a place of self reflection and focus on deep and personal subject matter. This can be especially difficult if you have just come from work or dropping the kids off at school. These days our lives are busier than ever and our brains are working in overdrive to try and keep up. So, in order to best transition your thoughts and mindset to a place where you can engage your inner thoughts and emotions and process through personal subject matter, try to set aside 15-30 minutes before your session to clear your mind, pray, recall the events of the previous session, or reflect on your current state of being. This will allow you to jump right into the experience and subject matter to truly make the most of your session.

Not too bad, right? I know this is only a fraction of what goes into each session, but I assure you that by taking some time before and after each session, you will begin to see how taking such an active part in your counseling will open doors and discussion, all hopefully leading to important and meaningful breakthroughs.