What should I expect during the first session?

Monday, 7 December 2009 15:31 by Nathan Comerford
Initial Session 
     As promised in my last entry, I will be discussing what to expect during the initial session.  The initial session is the first in a series of sessions which encompass the evaluation period.  Even though I briefly synopsized the evaluation process in my September 2009 newsletter (the first installment of "Expectations of Therapy") I will give a brief recap this month as well.  
      The evaluation is approximately 3-5 sessions depending on the nature of the problems and how many people are present.  During the evaluation, I would be gathering info about the nature and history of the problem.  I would also be asking questions about family history and previous therapy experiences.  At the end of the evaluation, I then give my thoughts as to what I believe is going on and what direction I believe would be most helpful.  The evaluation also gives the client(s) a chance to get some idea of who I am and, if we decide to continue, whether they would be comfortable working with me. 
     The evaluation that I conduct is no different than an evaluation a medical doctor would perform.  If someone consulted a doctor for pain in their lower back, the doctor would want to first run a series of tests in order to find out exactly what the problem was before treating it.  The evaluation gives me a chance to learn about the nature and causes of the underlying problems rather than using conjecture and running the risk of misdiagnosis.
     Listed below are some of the topics that I usually try to cover during the initial session:
  • The nature and duration of the presenting problem(s): It is helpful for me to get the client's perspective on what they believe the problems are and when they originated.
  • Employment: I like to find out the nature and length of employment as well as how the presenting problem(s) may be affecting performance at work.
  • Previous therapy experiences: This will give me a good idea of one's familiarity with the process of therapy and what has and has not worked for them in the past.
  • Expectations of treatment: Right from the beginning of therapy, I implore my clients to think about what they want their lives to look like at the completion of treatment.
  • Medical/psychiatric problems: Certain medical problems, medical drugs, psychiatric problems and especially psychiatric medications can affect the process and outcome of treatment.  It is beneficial for me to know these things from the genesis of treatment.
  • Family history: I will usually ask about the family history of mental illness, addiction, and abuse.  I also ask clients to give me a glimpse of what it was like growing up in their family household as well as what their relationships were like with their parents and siblings. 

     Next month I will be wrapping up this series on the expectiations of therapy by reviewing some of the fears and reservations that delay or prevent people from seeking help from a professional counselor or psychotherapist.  Happy holidays!
    


Sincerely,

Nathan M. Comerford, MA, LLPC, NCC

Nathan M. Comerford is a psychotherapist in Farmington Hills, MI who has been helping people with their relationship issues, emotional difficulties and mental health problems for the past 8 years. 

Thought Perspectives Counseling, PLLC
31275 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 120
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Phone: (248) 225-5259
www.thoughtperspectives.com

  • If you or someone you know needs to speak to someone regarding relationship issues, emotional difficulties or mental health problems, help is a phone call away.  Schedule an appointment today!
    Just call (248) 225-5259 to set up an appointment with
    Nathan Comerford, MA LLPC NCC.
        
    Visit     www.thoughtperspectives.com for more information on counseling and psychotherapy!

    Visit the "Ask the Counselor" Blog at:    www.thoughtperspectives.com/blog

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