CREATE PSYCHOLOGY NQ · GETTING STARTED

Starting therapy for the first time: what to expect

12 October 2026 · 4 minute read

You don’t need a perfectly organised explanation of your life before you ask for support. A first appointment can begin with something as simple as, “I’m not sure where to start.”

Where do I begin?

Perhaps something specific has brought you here. Perhaps you have been feeling stuck and want to understand why. Therapy can involve working through a difficult situation or exploring patterns you would like to change. You do not need to choose a diagnosis for yourself before making an enquiry.

A practical first step is to contact a practice and ask whether it offers support for your concerns. If you are unsure which kind of service you need, your GP can help you explore options.

Ask the practical questions first

You are allowed to find out how things work before deciding to book. You might ask:

Do you work with people of my age and with the concerns I’m describing?
What does a session cost, and what are the cancellation terms?
Do I need a referral for the way I plan to access the service?
Could any rebates apply, and what would I pay myself?
Are appointments available in person or online?

Fees and funding arrangements vary. Confirm the details with the practice, and ask your GP about referral or funding options where relevant. At Create Psychology NQ, our Access & referral page is a useful place to start.

What happens in a first appointment?

The first meeting is usually a chance to get to know one another, discuss what has brought you to therapy and consider what you hope will change. The psychologist may ask about your current circumstances and previous experiences of support.

You can also ask how sessions work, how information is recorded, what confidentiality means and when information might need to be shared. If something is unclear, ask for it to be explained in everyday language.

You can bring a few notes

If you worry about going blank, try writing down three things: what has been difficult recently, how it affects your day and one thing you would like help with. For example: “I keep replaying conversations after work, and I’d like to switch off more easily.”

This is a suggestion, not homework you must complete. You can say that a topic feels difficult, ask for a pause or explain that you need more time to find the words.

What if I’m seeking support for a child?

Start by checking that the clinician works with your child’s age group. Ask who should attend the first appointment, how parents or carers are involved, what consent is needed and how privacy will be discussed with you and your child. Your GP can help you find an appropriate service. This general guide does not mean every practice offers children’s appointments.

Finding a way forward together

Use the appointment to ask questions about the proposed approach and next steps. If something does not feel useful or comfortable, raise it with the psychologist. You can discuss adjustments or whether another clinician or service might suit your needs better.

You do not have to plan the whole journey today. Your first step can simply be an enquiry.

Ask about getting started ↗Back to Blog