What to Expect in Your First Session with a Melbourne Psychologist
- phoebelau
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Walking into your first therapy session can feel like a mix of nerves, curiosity, and relief. You’ve made the decision to see a psychologist. That’s already a big step. If you've landed on this blog, you're probably wondering “what’s going to happen when I sit down?”.
Why Melbourne psychologists ask questions in the first session
The first session isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about giving your psychologist a clear picture of what life looks like for you right now. They’ll probably ask a bunch of questions, but not in a stiff or clinical way. Think of it as them trying to join the dots of your story — where you’ve come from, what’s weighing on you, and what you’d like things to look like down the track.
If you’re seeing a clinical psychologist in Melbourne, you can expect a gentle but structured conversation. The aim is simple: to help you feel understood.
The kinds of questions you might hear from your
Every psychologist has their own style, but here are some of the most common first-session questions:
What brings you to therapy at this time?
What’s the main thing you’re struggling with right now?
Have you been to counselling or therapy before? How was that for you?
How do you usually cope with stress or tough times?
Do you have any worries or hesitations about starting therapy?
What would you like to get out of this process?
Can you tell me a bit about your family and important relationships?
Has anyone in your family experienced mental health issues or big health concerns?
Who’s in your support network right now?
If therapy were helpful, what would that look like for you?
These questions aren’t a test. They’re just a way to get to know not only your struggles but also your strengths and the supports you already have.
How you can prepare
You don’t need to walk in with a speech ready. But if you’d like to feel a little more settled, you could:
Think about what’s been hardest lately. Even one or two examples are helpful.
Write down a few thoughts. It can take the pressure off remembering everything in the moment.
Be honest, even if it feels messy. Therapy isn’t about polished answers — it’s about real ones.
How The Inner Collective works with you
At The Inner Collective Clinical Psychology in Melbourne CBD, we know the first session can feel daunting. Our psychologists take time to get to know you, not just your symptoms. We’re culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and we tailor therapy to what you need, not a cookie-cutter plan.
Whether you’re seeking help for anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or relationship struggles, our team of psychologists in Melbourne are here to listen and walk alongside you.
Thinking about booking in?
Your first session with a psychologist in Melbourne is simply a conversation. It's a chance to explore what’s going on for you, and what you’d like life to look like. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just starting is enough.
If you’re ready, reach out to us at The Inner Collective, Melbourne CBD and book your first session with one of our Melbourne therapists. It could be the beginning of something important.
