Steps to Book an Initial Consultation for Counselling

Taking the first step towards seeking support can feel both hopeful and a little daunting. When you decide to reach out for counselling, it’s important to know exactly what to expect and how to prepare. Booking an initial consultation for counselling is a gentle, welcoming process designed to help you feel comfortable and supported from the very beginning. I want to walk you through the steps, so you feel confident and cared for as you embark on this journey.

Understanding the Initial Consultation for Counselling

An initial consultation is your first meeting with me. It’s a safe space where you can share what’s on your mind, explore your feelings, and start to understand how therapy might help you. This session is not about solving everything at once but about opening a door to support and healing.

During this time, I will listen carefully to your story, ask gentle questions, and explain how I work. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions you might have about the process, confidentiality, and what to expect in future sessions. It’s a moment to feel heard and to decide if this is the right fit for you.

If you’re feeling nervous, that’s completely normal. Remember, this is your time, and I'm here to support you with kindness and respect.

A welcoming counselling space for initial consultations

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation for Counselling

Preparing for your first session can help ease any anxiety and make the experience more meaningful. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Reflect on your reasons for seeking counselling. What brought you here? What do you hope to gain? You don’t need to have all the answers, but having a general idea can help guide the conversation.

• Write down any questions or concerns. Sometimes, it’s hard to remember everything you want to say in the moment. A list can be a helpful reminder.

• Think about your availability. Consider your schedule and how often you might want to attend sessions. This will help when you discuss appointment times.

• Check your comfort with my approach. I encourage you to look at my website or social media profiles where you can learn about my style and specialities. This can help you feel more at ease before we meet.

  
  

Remember, the initial consultation is a two-way conversation. It’s as much about you getting to know me as it is about me understanding you.

How much is an initial private consultation?

I offer a free initial private consultation.

If budget is a concern for ongoing therapy sessions, don’t hesitate to ask about sliding scale fees or payment plans. I want to make counselling accessible and will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

I believe that knowing the cost upfront helps you feel more secure and focused on the support you’re seeking.

How to Book Your Initial Consultation

Booking your initial consultation is a simple and straightforward process. You can get in touch

1. Email (renate.walshcounsellor@gmail.com) or contact form on my website. If you prefer, you can send a message explaining that you’d like to book an initial consultation. This also gives you a chance to ask any preliminary questions.

   
   

2. Phone call. Sometimes, you might prefer to speak directly with me to provide immediate reassurance and help clarify any details.

   
   

3. WhatsApp or text. You can send me a WhatsApp message using the WhatsApp icon on my website or text me on 07301 056557.

   
   

4. Facebook. You can send a Facebook messenger message to me at Renate Walsh Counselling

When you reach out, please provide some basic information i.e. your name, contact details, and a brief description of what you’re seeking help with. This helps me prepare for our initial consultation session.

If you’re ready to take that step, you can book an initial consultation with me, where you’ll find a warm, inclusive environment tailored to your unique needs.

Marking an appointment date for counselling consultation

What to Expect During Your Initial Consultation

Your first session is a gentle introduction to counselling. Here’s what will happen:

• Warm welcome. I will greet you kindly and create a comfortable atmosphere.

• Confidentiality explained. You’ll learn about how your privacy is protected and when confidentiality might need to be broken (such as in emergencies).

• Your story. You’ll have the chance to share what’s been troubling you, at your own pace.

• Therapy approach. I will explain how I work and what methods I use in my practice.

• Goal setting. Together, we can start to identify what you want to achieve through counselling.

• Questions and answers. You can ask anything that’s on your mind about the process or my experience.

  
  

It’s perfectly okay to feel unsure or emotional during this session. I'm here to support you with patience and understanding.

Moving Forward After Your Initial Consultation

After your first meeting, you might feel a mix of relief, hope, or even uncertainty. All of these feelings are valid. The important thing is that you’ve taken a brave step towards caring for yourself.

If you decide to continue, I will help you schedule regular sessions and tailor the therapy to your needs. If you feel the fit isn’t quite right, that’s okay too. Sometimes, it takes meeting a few different professionals to find the right match.

Remember, counselling is a journey, not a race. Each step you take is a meaningful part of your growth and healing.

I hope this guide has gently illuminated the path to booking your initial consultation for counselling. Taking this step is an act of kindness towards yourself, and you deserve all the support and understanding as you move forward. Whenever you feel ready, know that help is just a conversation away.