17: The First Session: Helping Clients Clarify Their “Why” and Begin Treatment Planning
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Show Notes
In this episode, we dive into the essential elements of a first therapy session—how to build connection, uncover your client’s deeper "why" for seeking therapy, and begin contracting to co-create a strong foundation for working together and treatment planning. Whether you're a new therapist or a seasoned clinician looking to refresh or reflect on your intake process, this conversation offers practical strategies, sample language, and a flexible framework to make your first sessions more intentional and impactful.
What You'll Learn:-
Why and how the first session sets the tone for the therapeutic relationship
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How to help clients articulate their deeper hopes or reasons for starting therapy
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A flexible framework to structure your first session
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Clinical considerations for meeting clients where they are
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