What Happens in a First Couples Therapy Session?
It is normal to feel nervous
Most people arrive wondering, "Will I be blamed? Will we just fight in front of someone?" It helps to know what to expect.
What the first session is
The first session is a conversation, not a trial. I ask about what brought you in, what you hope will change, and what is already working. You each get time to be heard. I am not there to pick a side or decide who is at fault.
What I'll ask about
What is hardest right now, and what you want instead
How you two met and what drew you together
How you each handle stress and conflict
Anything that feels important for me to know early
You are in charge of how much you share. You do not have to cover everything in the first hour.
What happens after
Over the next sessions, I usually meet with you both, and sometimes with each of you briefly, to understand your history and goals. Then we build a plan together. You leave each session with something clear to try.
If one of you is hesitant
That is very common. You can say, "I am not sure this will work, but I will try one session." That is enough. A hesitant partner is still a partner who showed up.
How to prepare
Think about one thing you want to be different.
Plan something kind for after, like a walk or a meal.
Come as you are. You do not need to be calm or ready.
Ready when you are
If you would like to start, Request an appointment. I'm happy to answer questions first. You can also read about Couples Therapy and what it looks like here.