Your First
EMDR Appointment

What To Expect at Your

First Appointment

 

Your first therapy appointment is a get-acquainted type of session and the start of the process. No 'EMDR' is done. You'll share some information with your therapist like:

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• what drew you to therapy,

• your current concerns, and

• relevant personal history.

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Your therapist will ask what you want from therapy, seeking to understand your goals. As you go into this first appointment you might consider reflecting on:

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• what you'd like to work on, learn about, or improve;

• if you feel stuck, how that looks and feels in your life;

• what success after therapy could look like for you.

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This is your opportunity to ask questions about the therapist's background, experience, therapeutic philosophy, and approach. It serves as a "vibe check" so you feel comfortable with your therapist. 

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A first appointment is instrumental for developing a personalized treatment plan, including:

 

• treatment approach;

• frequency of sessions;

• possible treatment duration (number of sessions).

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Your therapist will answer your questions and explain the nuances of EMDR or other therapy approach. They may teach you helpful techniques and exercises to practice leading up to your second session.