The initial consultation

 

An initial psychotherapy session is a unique setting. In a relatively short time, patients are expected to share very personal information with a stranger. This often creates a noticeable internal tension and possibly even feelings of anxiety. Part of this tension can arise simply from the fact that an initial consultation is a new experience and therefore triggers uncertainty.

To make it easier for you to take the first step into psychotherapeutic treatment, I would like to explain the procedure of an initial consultation in my psychotherapeutic practice.

 

Sequence

 

The initial consultation lasts 50 minutes and usually begins on the hour. The door to the practice is open during the day; you can simply come upstairs and take a seat in the waiting area.

After a brief welcome, we will first address organizational matters. This includes completing and signing the therapy contract, which serves as the basis for invoicing (further information: Costs). At the end of the session, you will receive a copy of the therapy contract for your records.

Afterwards, I will briefly explain the framework of psychotherapeutic treatment (e.g., confidentiality). If you have any organizational questions, you can ask them at this time if we haven't already addressed them.

Subsequently, the more personal part of the initial consultation begins. The aim is to answer the following questions: Is psychotherapy generally indicated for you? What are the relevant symptoms? How long have the symptoms been present? Do you know what events triggered the symptoms? What do you hope to gain from psychotherapy, or what are your goals?

First, I will ask you to describe your current symptoms and the reason for your desire for psychotherapy. I will ask follow-up questions on various aspects in order to make an initial clinical assessment.

At the end of the conversation, I will usually make a preliminary diagnosis, which will be confirmed or rejected in the first sessions and, if necessary, through the use of psychometric questionnaires.

Finally, you have another opportunity to ask questions.

 

After the initial consultation

 

At the end of the initial consultation, you can consider whether you would like to schedule a second appointment, whether you would like to think about it some more, or whether you decide against therapy with me.

All options are perfectly legitimate. Psychotherapy is an interpersonal treatment, and the basic requirement for successful therapy is that you feel comfortable and can open up.