A guide to starting therapy at The Grounding Place Psychology.

Taking the first step to see a psychologist requires courage, and it's completely normal to feel a little nervous or unsure about what lies ahead. We want to demystify the process for you, so you can feel as comfortable as possible from the moment you connect.

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Before Your First Session

Once you’ve booked your appointment, you will receive an email with a link to our secure online intake form. This form asks for some background information and outlines our confidentiality and consent policies. Completing it beforehand allows us to dedicate your entire first session to you and what’s brought you to therapy, rather than paperwork.

 

First Session

Think of the first session as a gentle introduction. There is no pressure to share everything at once or to have all the answers.  This session helps with:

• Getting to know each other, having a conversation about what’s been happening & what you hope to achieve. This is a chance for you to see if my approach feels like a good fit.

• It important you feel comfortable. You are in control of the pace, and you only need to share what you are comfortable with.

• This is your time. I encourage questions  about the therapeutic process, my approach, or anything else on your mind.

The first session can be a little exhausting some people report a feeling of relaxation and tiredness afterwards; allow yourself permission to rest and relax if you feel tired.

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​The Sessions That Follow: The Collaborative Work

I take the view that you are the expert of your experiences and my role is to provide knowledge, guidance, tools, and support. I will provide a recommended treatment plan and we work together.

Ongoing sessions will include:

• exploring patterns, thoughts, and experiences  contributing to  struggles and help you gain insight.

• Set Intentions: clarify what you want to change and how to get there.

• Learn practical, evidence-based strategies to use in everyday life; finding 'what works' for you.

• Track progress,  acknowledge (maybe a little cheering) for the "light bulb" moments. 

 

Confidential, Professional and Non-Judgemental Psychological Service

Everything you share in therapy is held in the strictest confidence. Our sessions are a non-judgmental space where all parts of you are welcome.* We would much prefer to have respectful communication. 

Our duty is to provide a secure environment where you can be your authentic self without fear of criticism.

(Please note: The only exception to confidentiality is when there is a legal or ethical obligation to disclose information, such as an immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or others. This is a standard practice for all psychologists and will be explained in your intake form.)

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*Safety and respect is highly prioritised in this space and therefore any

aggressive and/or threatening language and/or behaviours will be addressed legally to ensure safety.