Every journey begins with a single step, and parents who have booked a psychotherapy session for their child have already taken a huge and significant positive step towards their future growth, recovery and well-being.
However, even with this first step being incredibly important, it is understandable for a parent to have a degree of anxiety or concern, and this is why the first therapy session is very important.
It is often known as an assessment or intake session and is primarily focused on the parent, psychologist and child getting to know each other and laying the groundwork for therapy going forward.
From the psychologist’s perspective, it is when they can talk to the child and the parent, establish a rapport, and gather information that will be important for shaping treatment, such as specific concerns, development, educational attainment and family dynamics.
This will often involve one-on-one sessions with both the parent and the child, depending on their age, with the latter often involving finding the right way for a child to express their thoughts, feelings and perspective. This can involve games, drawing sessions, conversations or a combination of the above.
It will also involve discussing interests and strengths as well because whilst there are often targeted goals for treatment, they are often achieved through the insights provided through play, art and interests.
It is also where the overall goals and the nature of treatment will be discussed so that both the parent and child understand the goals of the session, what they can expect from the therapist and their recommendations when it comes to treatment.
It is also an opportunity to ask questions, express concerns and get a feel for whether a particular approach is right for your child. It is also a point where communication protocols will be established such as confidentiality, steps to take in a crisis and keeping in touch between scheduled sessions.