Beginning Your Journey in Therapy
Starting therapy can feel both hopeful and a little uncertain — especially if it’s your first time. The first counseling session is a gentle and structured way to begin getting to know each other.
This initial meeting, often called the intake session or psychological interview, is a safe space for you to share your story, your life situation and the concerns or symptoms that led you to seek support.
During this first meeting, we explore what you are currently experiencing — emotionally, mentally and in your relationships — and start identifying what kind of help or therapeutic approach would be the most beneficial for you.
The aim is also to see whether we would work well together, as a good client–therapist fit is one of the most important factors in successful therapy.
What Happens in the First Counseling Session
The first session usually lasts about 45 minutes and includes:
- Talking about your background, current situation and what brings you to therapy
- Exploring your goals, expectations and what you would like to change or understand better
- Discussing how therapy works — confidentiality, structure, frequency and methods
- Clarifying whether counseling or psychotherapy would best suit your needs
There is no pressure to share everything at once. Therapy is a process — we start where you feel comfortable. This first meeting is as much for you to get a sense of how I work as it is for me to understand how I can best support you.
Psychological Testing and Assessment (If Needed)
Sometimes it can be helpful to take a closer look at your psychological well-being through standardized tests or questionnaires.
If we decide together that testing would provide valuable insight into your mental health or emotional state, we will schedule a separate psychological assessment session.
These tools can help us:
- Identify underlying emotional patterns or stress factors
- Clarify your strengths and areas for development
- Gain a deeper understanding of your mental fitness
- Support our joint decision about the right form of therapy
The results of these assessments are always discussed together, ensuring you understand what they mean and how they can guide your personal growth and healing.
Making the Decision Together
After the first session (and testing, if applicable), we decide together on the next steps.
We will discuss whether short-term counseling, psychotherapy or another approach best fits your goals, and agree on the frequency and duration of our sessions.
The first meeting is not a commitment — it’s an opportunity to begin exploring what support feels right for you.
Why the First Session Matters
Your first therapy session is much more than an introduction. It’s the beginning of building trust, safety and understanding — the foundation of all meaningful therapeutic work.
This is where we begin to shape a space where you can be fully yourself, explore your thoughts and feelings freely and take the first steps toward change.
Book a Session
If you’re ready to take a step toward change, growth and better mental wellbeing, I invite you to get in touch.
📍 Location: Budapest XI. district, Fadrusz u.27., Hungary
💻 Online sessions available
📩 Email: info.pszichologia
gmail.com (info[dot]pszichologia[at]gmail[dot]com)
Let’s work together to make your experience in Hungary more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling.
Author: Gabriella Brédáné Kis, Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist
I’m an English-speaking psychologist based in Budapest, offering in-person and online therapy for individuals seeking support with self-awareness, trauma and grief recovery, performance anxiety and relationship difficulties.
I help clients — including expats, international students, and professionals — gain deeper insight, emotional balance, and a stronger sense of connection in their personal and professional lives.