Your first therapy session
(aka “Intake Assessment”)
Understand what goes on during your Intake Assessment at Annabelle Psychology
Your first therapy session with your psychologist is called an Intake Assessment or simply, Intake.
Intake is a session for your psychologist to understand you as a person and discuss the issues that have brought you to therapy. It is vital that the Intake takes place in a safe, private, and non-judgemental space. Your psychologist may also ask you questions about the personal information that you filled in your intake form prior to the Intake session.
Through guided conversation, your psychologist will develop an understanding of your concerns and other underlying factors and explore relevant background or history; for example, information about your family, social relationships, work history or any past counselling that you have done. With the information you share, your psychologist works with you to craft a collaborative and flexible plan for future therapy sessions. Bring a notepad to record the discussions that occur during your session.
Intake sessions run for 90 minutes. If the concerns or the issues you face are complex, your psychologist may request that you extend your Intake session or return on another day.