If you’ve never seen a counsellor before, it’s completely normal to feel unsure — or even a bit anxious — about what to expect. At Zenvia, we aim to make your first session as comfortable, respectful, and supportive as possible.
Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare and know what’s ahead.
Is It Normal to Feel Nervous?
Absolutely. Many people feel uncertain about opening up, especially if they’ve had difficult experiences in the past or if they’re not sure what they want to talk about.
Know this: counselling is not about being judged or diagnosed. It’s about having a space where you can be honest, feel heard, and begin working through what’s weighing you down — at your own pace.
Before Your Session
When you book with Zenvia, we’ll ask you to complete a short intake form. This helps us understand your background, goals and preferences, and match you with the right counsellor.
You’ll also receive:
- A confirmation email
- A secure Zoom link for your session
- Information on how to prepare and what to expect
Make sure you have a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection for the session.
What Happens in the First Session?
Your first session typically lasts 50 minutes, and the counsellor will:
- Introduce themselves and explain how they work
- Talk through confidentiality and your rights
- Invite you to share what’s been happening in your life
- Explore your goals and what support might look like
- Answer any questions you have about the counselling process
You don’t need to prepare a script or know exactly what to say. Your counsellor is trained to guide the conversation in a way that feels safe and respectful.
Will I Need to Talk About Everything Right Away?
No — you only need to share what you’re comfortable with. You’re in control of how much or how little you talk about. Counselling is not about pressure, it’s about pacing.
If you’ve experienced trauma or sensitive issues, your counsellor will never push you to go into details before you’re ready.
After the Session
You may feel relieved, lighter, tired, or emotional — all of these are completely normal.
Your counsellor may suggest:
- A regular session schedule (weekly, fortnightly, etc.)
- Techniques to try between sessions
- Checking in with how the process is feeling for you
If you’re funded (e.g. through Victims Services, Carers NSW or NDIS), we’ll manage the admin and billing — you won’t need to worry about a thing.
Final Thoughts
Starting counselling is a brave step, and the first session is about building safety and trust. You don’t need to have all the answers — you just need to show up as you are.
At Zenvia, our online sessions make it easier to get the help you deserve, from the privacy of your own home.
Ready to get started?
Book a session now or contact us if you have any questions.