What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session at Ankeny Counseling

What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session at Ankeny Counseling

by | Jun 23, 2025 | Emily Gregory

Starting therapy is a big step, and it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions before your first session. If you have made an appointment at our office, here are a few things you can expect when you walk through our doors at Ankeny Counseling Center.

  1. A Warm Welcome: When you first arrive, you’ll be greeted by our receptionist, Caroline, who will walk you through any last paperwork that needs completed prior to your appointment along with a symptom checklist. You will then be guided to our waiting area where we have an assortment of refreshments, such as coffee, tea, pop, and water. We pride ourselves on creating a safe, welcoming environment, and our hope is that you feel at ease right from the start.
  2. Getting to Know You: Your therapist will begin by asking questions to understand your unique situation, your reasons for seeking therapy, any challenges you’re currently facing, and your goals for therapy. It’s okay to take your time with this part, and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
  3. Confidentiality and Trust: One of the key components of therapy is confidentiality. Your therapist will explain how your sessions are private, and you’ll have a safe space to express yourself without judgment. Building trust is a gradual process, so don’t worry if you don’t open up fully in your first session.
  4. Discussing the Process: Your therapist will walk you through what to expect in future sessions. They’ll discuss different therapy techniques they might use, and together you’ll develop a plan for achieving your goals. If you have any questions or concerns, this is a great time to ask! 
  5. Scheduling Additional Appointments: The first session is just the beginning. At the end, your therapist will recommend how often to schedule. We typically recommend weekly or biweekly sessions in order to build on your progress quickly. However, we understand that is not always feasible for one reason or another, so we are flexible with whatever works best for you. You will be directed to check out with our receptionist to set up future appointments and pay any outstanding balances.

If you have already made an appointment, we are looking forward to seeing you soon! If you are still considering whether or not therapy is for you, I encourage you to check out my blog: Why therapy? Top reasons to seek counseling. We are here to support you every step of the way.

 

Why therapy? Top reasons to seek counseling

Why therapy? Top reasons to seek counseling

by | Dec 5, 2024 | Blog, Emily Gregory, Therapy

When people ask me, "Why therapy?" I often respond with, "Why not therapy?" 

Mental health is often overlooked amid daily responsibilities and pressures in today's fast-paced world. However, we can all agree on how helpful it is to talk through these responsibilities and pressures with someone, especially when you feel overwhelmed by them. Seeking therapy is a proactive step towards better emotional well-being, and therapy is beneficial for everyone as we navigate life's challenges. If you're considering counseling, here are some compelling reasons to take that step.

Confidential and Non-Judgmental Space

One of therapy's most significant advantages is its confidentiality and non-judgmental environment. Sometimes, our thoughts feel too scary to speak, and we can feel weighed down by them. However, sharing your thoughts and experiences with someone who is trained to listen and provide support can be incredibly freeing. It allows for honest discussions that can lead to meaningful insights and healing. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or just feeling overwhelmed, talking to a therapist can help clarify emotions and provide coping strategies.

Coping with Life Changes

Life is filled with transitions—moving to a new city, starting a new job, or dealing with losing a loved one. These changes can be overwhelming. Therapy offers tools to manage stress, process grief, and navigate through life's ups and downs. 

Personal Growth

Many individuals seek counseling to facilitate personal growth. Do you have a bad habit you can't seem to kick on your own, want to feel more confident, or have a quality about yourself you don't quite understand? A therapist can help you identify patterns in your behavior, discover the root of the pattern, set goals, and help you develop new skills. This journey of self-discovery can lead to greater self-esteem, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life.

Improving Relationships

Relationships can be complicated, whether it's family dynamics, romantic partnerships, or friendships. Couples or family therapy can enhance communication, disrupt negative patterns, and resolve conflicts, helping you build stronger, healthier connections. Individual therapy provides a space to discuss the patterns occurring in your relationships, understand how past experiences shape your current relationships, and help you regulate emotions during conflict. Your therapist can even help role-play a difficult conversation you feel nervous to have. 

Developing Healthy Coping Strategies

As we grow up and experience challenges in life, we cope in the best way we know how to at the time, and we typically carry these coping strategies with us throughout life, whether they are healthy or not. Sometimes, we need help developing effective coping strategies. A therapist can introduce techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and stress management skills. These tools can be beneficial in everyday situations, helping you to respond to challenges with resilience.

Support for Mental Health Conditions

For those diagnosed with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD, therapy is an essential component of treatment. Therapists work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, combining therapy with other interventions if necessary.

Work Toward Holistic Health

Mental health therapy plays a crucial role in holistic health by supporting emotional and psychological well-being, which in turn impacts physical and spiritual health. By addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, therapy helps individuals gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This self-awareness fosters healthier coping mechanisms, better emotional regulation, and improved relationships. In the context of holistic health, mental health therapy promotes balance, reducing the mind's impact on the body, and helps create a more grounded, resilient individual capable of nurturing all aspects of their health.

These are some of the top reasons to seek therapy, and I believe that whatever your reason, starting therapy is a courageous and worthwhile endeavor. Whether you want to enhance your mental well-being, cope with life changes, or foster personal growth, counseling can be a powerful tool. Remember, prioritizing your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. You should reach out and take your first step towards healing and a brighter, healthier future.