How Depression Counseling Works: What to Expect in Your First Session

Today’s fast-paced world makes us juggle a lot of responsibilities, and it affects our mental health. The good thing about the generation today is that we are opening doors for people to help us cope and heal, and depression counseling offers that pathway to better understand our emotions so we can handle the challenges life throws at us in healthier ways. If you are on your first session and you feel nervous, we’ll help you know what to expect in online depression counselling.

What Is Depression Counseling?

Depression counseling is a process that helps individuals navigate the emotional and psychological challenges of depression by holding therapy sessions with a professional psychologist or counsellor. They provide you with a safe space to share your experiences so they can work with you towards coping strategies that would regain your resilience to life’s challenges and support your long-term well-being.

Setting the Stage and the First Session

The first step into counselling can feel intimidating, but know that you’re not alone, because seeking help is a sign of strength. Before your first session, these professionals might give you forms that ask about your medical history, your current symptoms, and your expectations of the session. Don’t worry if you do not know the answer—these are only information that a counsellor needs to assess where you are starting from.

The first session of depression counseling often focuses on introducing and building a comfortable environment for you to set ground on, which typically is a conversation type. Keep in mind that the questions your counsellor would ask you are not meant to pry but to help you understand the situation unique to you. It’s okay to take your time and share your feelings, as these series of sessions will encourage you to talk openly without fear of judgement.

Over time, your counsellor will walk you through what you hope to achieve and the techniques they will be doing with you to manage your emotions.

What Counselling Isn’t: Dispelling Myths

There’s a common misconception that counsellors just tell you what to do and you must comply, but it is a collaborative process to uncover solutions and techniques that are best for your situation.

Another thing is that counseling is only for people experiencing depression, but it’s a way for you to prevent yourself from feeling stagnant and to give you clarity early on so you can take on the challenges you need to face in the future.

How to Make the Most of Counseling

With more and more people recognising the importance of mental health, counsellors usually make each therapy session more relatable and conversational. Keep in mind that things don’t happen overnight, and that you might even need time to process your thoughts and feelings before you share them. At the end of the day, all you have is yourself, and you need to trust the process so you can allow yourself to grow at your own pace.

Finally, always stay curious and let yourself be transparent about what you are feeling to your counsellor. Remember to be kind to yourself as you navigate this journey.